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What is a Regularisation Certificate?

A certificate granted by a building control authority in respect of works on non-domestic buildings and apartments blocks which were commenced or completed without the necessary Fire Safety Certificate (FSC). The certificate may be granted with or without conditions or refused.

What is the purpose of Community Grants?

The purpose of Community Grants is to provide financial support to community groups who are engaged in community initiatives, projects, events and activities in the administrative area of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. The grants support the delivery of the Council’s commitment to improve the quality of life for all its citizens.

Who can apply for a community grant?

Local community and voluntary groups may apply for a community grant to assist with the delivery of a community initiative, project, event or activity. The group must be properly constituted and the application must demonstrate a benefit to the local community. The group must also be registered with the Public Participation Network.

Can a group apply for the full cost of a project/event/activity/initiative?

No, a grant will only cover a percentage of a project and the group must demonstrate the financial capacity to match the funding.

Can the grant be drawn down on receipt of grant approval?

Yes, but the application to draw down the grant must be accompanied by the appropriate support documentation.

Can a group apply for more than 1 grant?

Yes, a group can apply for several grants under different categories provided each application relates to a different project/event/activity/initiative.

Can a group apply under two categories for the same project/event/activity/initiative to maximise the funding granted?

No, funding will only be awarded to proposals not already covered under another grant category.

Can a group apply for a grant under a number of categories on one application?

No, a separate application must be submitted for each grant category.

Is every group required to register with the PPN to qualify for a grant?

Groups working in the areas of Community, Sports, Arts, Residents Associations, groups working with people experiencing disadvantage/inequality and groups with a focus on protecting the environment and sustainability must register with the PPN in order to qualify for funding. Application forms for registering can be found on www.dlrcoco.ie/ppn . Other conditions apply to individual grant categories, e.g. an application under the category of Age Friendly Support must address specific needs of older people and demonstrate how it supports the delivery of the DLR Age Friendly Strategy.

What is a Community Facilities Grant?

This category covers two grant types:-
A Feasibility Grant is intended to give assistance to local community and voluntary groups to complete a feasibility study regarding the development of a community facility.
The Upgrading Community Facilities Grant allows for the refurbishment and/or redecoration of a facility which is used by the community.

What is an Equipment Grant intended for?

An equipment grant is intended for the purchase or replacement of agreed relevant equipment. It includes the purchase of major and minor equipment.
A Major Equipment Grant provides for the purchase of large items of equipment up to a maximum value of €4,000.
A Minor Equipment Grant provides for the purchase of smaller items of equipment up to a maximum value of €1,000.

Can a group apply for an Equipment Grant each year?

A Major Equipment Grant can only be applied for once every three years while a Minor Equipment Grant can be applied for every year.

Does the Equipment Grant allow for the purchase of laptops/tablets/smart phones?

No, the Equipment Grant applies only to the cost of desktop personal computers which remain office based.

What is a Community Activity Grant?

A Community Activity Grant is intended to assist community and voluntary groups to promote local community activities. Examples include a community day, community week or a small event during the year.

Who can apply for a Summer Project Grant?

Community groups can apply for this grant to assist with the provision of supervised recreational and educational activities for young people during the summer period. Summer projects must cater for the local community and must run for a period one, two or three weeks over the summer holiday.

What is a Community Development Grant?

This category includes grants to assist with:-
Start Up Costs for community and voluntary groups, including insurance costs, purchase of small items of equipment and rental costs in the first year only.
Training Support for groups involved in community development who require training related to community development, governance, committee skills etc. The training must be for a group of volunteers and not one person only.
Community Development Initiatives for projects which assist with the long term development of a group or area and which specifically address equality initiatives, anti-racism, social inclusion, research and implementation of information and communication technology.
Running Costs related to on-going running costs including insurance and facility hire for groups in existence for a period of at least 2 years prior to application.

Who can apply for an Age Friendly Support Grant?

The Age Friendly Support Grant is available to groups and organisations who wish to deliver specific supports and initiatives to enhance the quality of life of older people living and visiting the area of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

Is priority given to certain applications in the Age Friendly Support category?

Priority will be given to initiatives which support the achievement of the Age Friendly Strategy with goals relating to enhancing the quality of life for older people as well as initiatives improving accessibility to the built environment or initiatives to reduce isolation or loneliness.

What about Child Protection?

Projects are responsible for ensuring that they meet all the requirements of child protection and Garda vetting legislation in Ireland, including the Children First Act 2015. Successful applicants must have policies and procedures in place prior to drawing down funds in accordance with national policy, namely, Children First: National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children.

What is an IAD?

An IAD is an identified area of disadvantage in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County.

Do I have to acknowledge Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Yes, all successful applicants are required to acknowledge the financial assistance of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council and include the Council’s logo on all printed matter.

Why was my application refused?

An application can be refused on a number of grounds. The most common reasons are:
The group did not demonstrate ability to match fund the project
The group is not constituted and is not a voluntary community group
DLR County Council does not fund the item i.e. laptops are not funded and items considered a risk to the personal safety of groups are not funded.
The application is vague and does not have enough information to allow the grant to be approved.
Business organisations not eligible for funding
The group applied for the same funding under another grant application within the Dun Laoghaire County Council.

How can I improve my application?

Applications should be typed clearly and concisely
Applicants should use the checklist to ensure they submit all required documentation
Applicants must meet the required deadline
Applicants should ensure that they apply under the correct and most appropriate section
Applicants should contact a community worker or area community officer to discuss their application or attend an information evening.

Is the Calendar updated if changes are required to the date, time or venue of any meeting?

The calendar is updated and re-published on the website where changes are required to the time, date or venue of any meeting.

How can I find out how much is left on my loan?

You can ring any member of the Housing Revenue Loans section on 01 2054836.

How can I find out how much my monthly payment is?

You can ring any member of the Housing Revenue Loans section on 01 2054836.

How can I find out if my monthly payments are up-to-date?

An annual statement is issued every year or you can get a statement showing these details by ringing the Loan Accounts section at 01 2054836.

How do I check the balance on my rent account?

A balance can be given over the phone or via email to the tenant of the property only. Please phone 01 2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie
Please note that we can only discuss tenancy matters with the named tenant of the property, unless an agreement is in place for a third party to act/speak on the tenant’s behalf
A statement is issued to tenants every three months. Tenants can check their receipts/payments against this statement. Copies of rent statements can be issued on request.

What is the membership of the Economic Development and Enterprise SPC?

There are six categories of information available as follows:
the state of the elements of the environment e.g. air, water, soil, land, landscape, biological diversity
factors affecting, or likely to affect, the elements of the environment, e.g. energy, noise, radiation, waste and other releases into the environment
measures designed to protect the elements of the environment e.g. policies, legislation, plans, programs, environmental agreements
reports on the implementation of environmental legislation
analyses and assumptions used within the framework of measures designed to protect the environment
the state of human health and safety, the food chain, cultural sights and built structures in as much as they may be affected by the elements of the environment.
Under the mandate of legislation, we must refuse to give you access to environmental information on the following grounds:
personal information
information supplied by a third party voluntarily
material the disclosure of which would make it more likely that the environment to which such material related would be damaged
confidentiality of the proceedings of public authorities.
Under the AIE Regulations we may refuse to give you access to information on certain grounds:
international relations, national defence or public security
the course of justice
commercial or industrial confidentiality
intellectual property rights
material in the course of completion
internal communications with public authorities
the request is considered to be unreasonable due to the volume or range of information sought or the request is too general.

How do I request information under the AIE Regulations?

When making a request for information under the AIE Regulations, you must:
submit your request in writing or electronic form and state that it is being made under the AIE Regulations
provide your contact details
state as clearly as possible the environmental information required
if you require the information in a specific format or manner of access, you should specify this in your request.
We are obliged to reply within one month of receipt of your application.
Please submit your application to:
Conor PeoplesFreedom of Information OfficerCorporate, Communications & Governance DepartmentDún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council
County Hall
Marine Road
Dún LaoghaireCo. Dublin
Tel: 01 2047053
Fax: 01 2806969
Email: foi@dlrcoco.ie
Office tel: 01 2047053
Office email: foi@dlrcoco.ie
The AIE Regulations allow people access to environmental information held by or for public authorities which is not routinely available through other means.
The Freedom of Information Acts 1997 and 2003 operate in parallel with the AIE Regulations. This means that people can gain access to environmental information under the FOI Acts and the AIE Regulations
If you wish to access personal information held by the Council under the Data Protection legislation, please see the Data Protection Section

Residents can apply for parking permits and visitors permits. For non-residents payment will be on a Pay & Display basis.

Who is eligible to apply for a Residents Parking Permit?

The Parking Control Bye-Laws, 2007 define a resident “a person who is the occupant of a dwelling or a converted house, other than a purpose built apartment block, who satisfies the Council that his/her normal dwelling place is at premises situated within a pay parking area which relates to the parking permit”.
Dwelling is defined as “a building or structure designed and used for residential purposes, other than an apartment within a purpose built apartment block”.
Residents of purpose built apartment blocks are not eligible for resident’s permits.
Businesses, employees and non-resident landlords are not eligible for residents permits.
The display of a valid parking permit, as specified in the Parking Control Bye-Laws, is the responsibility of the applicant.

How many Residents Parking Permits can be purchased per residence?

In any one year, the Council shall, on application by a resident, issue one parking permit per resident’s car within its own pay parking area, subject to production of acceptable evidence by the resident up to an upper limit of four residents parking permits per dwelling.
Where a building comprises a converted house the total number of residents’ parking permits that may be held concurrently by residents of housing units in that building shall be four subject to the limit of one residents’ parking permit per housing unit and subject to production of acceptable evidence.

How much does a Parking Permit cost?

Residential Parking Permit:
Fee: €40 per one year permit or €75 per two year permit.
Visitors Parking Permits:
Visitor permits are sold at a cost of €2.00 each in multiples of 4.
The minimum order is 4 Permits at a cost of €8.00.

Is a Residents Parking Permit interchangeable between vehicles?

A resident’s parking permit is only valid for the vehicle and the parking area indicated on the permit. Maps showing the parking areas in which the Parking Control Bye-Laws are in operation are available for inspection at County Hall, Dún Laoghaire and in the Council Offices in Dundrum. The Parking Control Bye-Laws, 2007 may be viewed on the Council’s website.

I have changed my car, how do I change my permit?

A Change of Vehicle form must be completed. The completed form must be accompanied by:
- a copy of the insurance certificate for the vehicle which must display the address to which the permit is being applied for.
If the car is registered in the name of a company you must supply a copy of the current insurance certificate for the vehicle, AND a letter from the company stating that you are employed by them and that you have habitual use of the vehicle,
AND
- the old parking permit. If the old parking permit is not returned with the application, an ‘Application for Replacement Parking Permit’ form must be completed.

Why should residents pay to park on their own street?

The scheme is being introduced primarily for the benefit of residents, to ease parking pressures in their area. The implementation of the scheme involves substantial costs to the Council, including road lining, signage, the provision of parking meters, and continued maintenance and enforcement costs. The present fee for a parking permit is €40 for an annual permit or €75 for a two-year permit.

Is it possible to provide residents only parking?

There is no statutory basis for providing residents only parking on public roads.

What provision is being made for people with disabilities?

Motorists who display a ‘Parking Card for People with Disabilities’ (EU Blue Card), issued by the Irish Wheelchair Association or legitimate national authority, may park in controlled areas without payment.

Will I be guaranteed a space outside my house?

Residents permits will allow residents to park in a designated area, but will not guarantee availability of spaces.

How will visitors or tradesmen park?

Visitors permits, valid for parking in a Pay & Display bay, will be available to residents at a cost of €2.00 each. Each permit will be valid for 1 day. Also, short stay parking may be paid for by Pay & Display ticket.

Can residents park in areas designated for long stay/short stay parking?

Residents can park in the majority of long stay/short stay bays, once a valid residents permit is displayed, however residents may not be allowed to park in some commercial areas. Commercial areas/bays will have a time plate stating ‘Permits Not Valid’, residents may not use their permits while parking in these areas.
More on Applying for Residents and Visitors Permits

How do I report an instance of illegal parking?

To report an instance of illegal parking you may contact the Council’s Parking Section on P: 2054884 or email parkingcontrol@dlrcoco.ie

What is the membership of the Community Development, Culture and Ageing SPC?

Is there a duty on owners to notify the Local Authority of a change in occupation of rateable property?

From the 1st of July 2014 under Section 32 of the Local Government Reform Act 2014, owners of rateable property are required to notify the relevant local authority when there is a change in the occupation of their property i.e. where a property is being sold or there is a change in occupier including where a property becomes vacant. Fa by the ratepayer for the relevant period of their ownership subject to Owners must complete a Section 32 Form within 14 days of the change taking place. Owners who do not notify the local authority within 14 days will incur a financial penalty. This penalty is an amount equivalent to up to two years of outstanding rates from the previous occupier. Any penalty due and outstanding by an owner of relevant property due to non-notification will remain a charge on the property.
All ratepayers are reminded that they are legally required to pay all commercial rates due from them prior to their departure from a property or prior to the sale or transfer of an interest in a property. Any rates due and outstanding by an owner of relevant property will remain a charge on the property.

If a tenant moves into a premises and there are rates due on it, can the tenant be held liable?

It is up to the new occupier to ensure that all rates, including the current year’s rates and all other liabilities are paid before the closing of a sale or the assignment of a lease of any rateable property.

What happens if I request a revision of rateable valuation?

A Valuer (called a Revision officer) from the Valuation Office will call to assess your property. Where possible the Revision Officer will make contact prior to the inspection to arrange an appointment. Once the property is inspected, the Revision Officer will send you a draft certificate containing the proposed valuation and other details of your property.
If you are unhappy with the valuation or other details on this draft certificate you may make representations to the Revision Officer within 28 day of the issuing of the draft certificate, see http://www.valoff.ie/en/

I have an agreement with the Council to pay my waste charge arrears. What happens now?

Please continue to pay your arrears as normal.

What happens if I have waste charge arrears with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council?

If your account is in arrears and you do not already have an agreement with the Council, please contact any member of the Waste Charges team at telephone (01) 205 4747 or e-mail charges@dlrcoco.ie to clear arrears or to set up a formal agreement to pay the arrears by instalment.

I have unused bag labels, what do I do with them?

Return them to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (Waste Charges, Finance and Risk Management Department), County Hall, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin for a refund

Can I build an extension to my home without having to seek planning permission?

Broadly speaking, the construction of an extension or conservatory does not require planning permission when it is to the rear of the house; however, any query from the public of this nature should be dealt with subject to the provisions of Part 1 of the 2nd Schedule to the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001.
The following should be seen only as general guidelines;
Terraced and Semi-Detached Houses: If the house has not been previously extended, the floor area of the proposed extension cannot exceed 40 sq metres. This exemption also allows for extensions above ground-floor level (if the house is semi-detached or terraced, the area of the above ground extension cannot exceed 12 sq. m). This means, for a typical semi-detached house, one could have a ground floor extension of 28sq. m & 2nd floor extension of 12sq m without applying for planning permission. Any above ground floor extension shall be a distance of not less than 2 metres from any party boundary.
Detached Houses: As with terraced and Semi-detached above, the overall area of extension must be less than 40 sq. metres. This exemption also allows for extensions above ground floor level, the are above ground floor are cannot exceed 20 sq. m. One could therefore have a ground floor extension of 20 sq. m., and a 2nd floor of 20 sq. m. Any above ground floor extension shall be a distance of not less than 2 metres from any party boundary..
Both Cases: If the proposed extension is in addition to an existing extension (post 01-10-1964), overall areas of all extensions must not be more than 40 sq. m. - including extensions which needed permission, e.g. to side of house.

Can I cover my entire back garden with an extension of 40sqm?

No.The extension shall not reduce the "Private Open Space" of the back garden to less than 25 sq. m. Hard surface areas to the rear of a house are exempted development, providing they are used for a purpose incidental to the enjoyment of the house and not used for the parking of cars.
N.B. Existing or proposed garden shed/s are not reckoned as private open space.

Can I build a window to the side of my extension?

Yes, providing the following guidelines are applied;
Terraced and Semi-Detached Houses: Windows at ground floor level shall not be less than 1 metre from the boundary they face. Windows at above ground floor level shall not be less than 11m from the boundary they face. The above applies to terraced s/d dwellings.
Detached Houses: Where the dwelling is detached and the floor area of above ground floor extension is greater than 12sqm windows shall not be less than 11m from the boundary they face.

If I build an attic conversion do I need permission?

Normally no. However, if work involves dormer windows, permission is needed. If velux windows proposed to the rear, it is exempt. If velux windows proposed to the side/front elevation it is not exempt.

Is the area of an attic conversion reckonable in assessing the 40sqm exemption limit for domestic extensions?

No.

Can I convert my garage to living accommodation without permission?

Yes. Subject to the provisions of Part 1 of the 2nd Schedule to the Planning & Development Regulations 2001 N.B. Garage must be attached to the dwelling.
(Page 156 - 157).

Yes provided that:
It is not forward of the front wall of the house;
Not greater than 25sqm (or no. of sheds aggregated);
25sqm of garden space is left. N.B. extensions attached to house are not reckoned as private open space;
Shed finish is in keeping with the house;
Shed height: max 4m pitched roof; 3m flat roof;
It is not lived in or used for keeping of animals (pigs, ponies, horses, pigeons).
(see page 156 - 157, Class 3)

Can I build a porch without permission?

Yes, provided that:
Not less than 2 metres from roadway;
Not more than 2sqm Height: 3m max for a Flat Roof, 4m max Pitched Roof.
(see page 158, Class 7)

Can I build an extension to the front of my house without permission?

No. This is not exempted development (except the porch - for exemptions see page 158, Class 7 and Section 9).

Can I install a chimney, boiler house or oil tank for central heating without permission?

Yes. The height of the antenna shall be no more than 6m above the roof.
Note: These notes are for guidance only. The relevant Planning Regulations should always be consulted where doubt exists.

Can I erect a Satellite Dish without permission?

Yes provided that:
Only 1 per house.
Max. Diameter 1 metre.
Not to be erected on, or forward to the front wall of the house.
Not to be erected on the front roof slope or higher than the highest part of the roof.
(see page 157, Class 4, 1 - 4).

Can I build walls around my house without planning permission?

Yes, subject to:
Not more than 2m high to the rear.
Not more than 1.2 metres to the front or forward of the front of the house.
(Page 157, Class 5).
NB: Metal palisade or other security fencing is not exempt.

Yes. To the front or side for not more than 2 cars.
(Page 157, Class 6, Part B(ii))
NB. The widening of vehicular entrances is not exempt. (3.5 meters max with permission)

Can I convert 2 or more dwelling to use as a single dwelling without permission?

Yes. But only if the structure was previously used as a single dwelling. e.g. a house which was used as a single dwelling when built, later converted to flats can convert back to single dwelling use under this exemption.

Does a For Sale sign on a dwelling need permission?

No, subject to:max area of 0.6sqm in case of a house/letting max area 1.2sqm in case of any other structure/land.Not more than 1 sign. Remove not later than 7 days after sale/letting.

Can I build a pond, path, decking or landscaping works without permission?

Yes. Provided that the ground level not be altered by more than 1 metre above or below the level of adjoining ground. Alteration of ground level to front of house is not permitted other than for landscaping.
(Page 158, Class 6)

Can I build a tennis court without permission?

Strictly speaking, yes, to the rear. However, the provision of lighting and fencing over 2m would not be exempted. The 1 metre raising/lowering of ground levels also applies.
(Page 158, Class 6 & Page 159, Class 11)

Can I paint my house without permission?

Yes, except for a mural and providing the house is not a Protected Structure.
(Page 159, Class 12)

Can I keep a caravan/campervan or boat in my garden without permission?

Yes, subject to:
Not more than 1 caravan / campervan or boat;
No commercial / advertising use;
Not used as a dwelling while stored;
Storage not greater than 9 months in any year.
(Page 158, Class 8)

Can I erect a Wind Turbine, Solar Panel, Heat Pump within the curtilage of my house?

Yes. From 28/02/2007 these are exempted under new Class 2 to exempted regulations, subject to limitations.
The Planning and Development (Amendment) Regulations 2007 give effect to exempted development provisions in respect of renewable energies for dwellings and refer to the installation or erection of a solar panel on or within the curtilage of a house, or on any buildings within the curtilage of a house is exempt subject to compliance with the following conditions and limitations:
Solar Panels:
The total aperture area of any such panel taken together with any such panels previously placed on or within the curtilage of a house shall not exceed 12 sqm or 50% of the total roof area, whichever is the lesser;
1. The distance between the plane of the wall or a pitched roof and the panel shall not exceed 15 cm;
2. The distance between the plan of a flat roof and the panel shall not exceed 50cm;
3. The solar panels shall be a minimum of 50cm from any edge of the wall or roof on which it is to be mounted;
4. The height of a free standing solar array shall not exceed 2 metres at its highest point, above ground level;
5. A free standing solar array shall not be placed on or forward of the front wall of the a house;
6. The erection of any free standing solar array shall not reduce the area of private open space to the rear or side of the house to less than 25 sq m.
Wind Turbines:
The construction, erection or placing within the curtilage of a house of a wind turbine is exempt subject to the following Regulations (Class 2)
1. The turbine shall not be erected on or within the curtilage of a house of a wind attached to the house or any building or other structure within its curtilage.
2. The total height of the turbine shall not exceed 13 metres.
3. The rotor diameter shall not exceed 6 metres.
4. The minimum clearance between the lower tip of the rotor and ground level shall not be less than 3 metres.
5. The supporting tower shall be a distance of not less than the total structure height (including the blade of the turbine at the highest point of its arc) plus one metre from any party boundary.
6. Noise levels must not exceed 43db(A) during normal operation, or in excess of 5db(A) above the background noise, whichever is greater, as measured from the nearest neighbouring inhabited dwelling.
7. No more than one turbine shall be erected within the curtilage of a house.
8. No such structure shall be constructed, erected or placed forward of the front wall of a house.
9. All turbine components shall have a matt, non-reflective finish and the blade shall be made of material that does not deflect telecommunication signals.
10. No sign, advertisement or object, not required for the functioning or safety of the turbine shall be attached to or exhibited on the wind turbine.
FYI - The Planning and Development (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (SI 256 of 2008) give effect to exempted development provisions in respect of renewable energies for industrial buildings, business premises and agricultural holdings.
Please refer to Regulations for further information.

If my property is a Protected Structure, do these exemptions apply?

No. Most works to a Protected Structure are not exempted. A declaration of what is / is not exempted is needed to clarify issues.

Do bus shelters need permission?

Yes, not exempted development.

Can I erect a roadside shrine without permission?

Yes, subject to maximum area of 2sqm, max height is 2m above the centre of the road opposite, and it is not lit.

Is permission needed for a crèche childcare facility?

Yes, unless the number of children, including carers is not more than 6 and caring is in carers own house.

Change of use

(Page 160, Class 14).

Occasional Use

Occasional use for recreational, social purposes of any school, hall, club, art gallery, museum, library, reading room, gym or structures normally used for public worship.
(Page 160 Class 15).

Is permission needed for a telephone kiosk?

No, provided not situated with 10m of the curtilage of any dwelling house save with the consent in writing of the owner/occupier.
(Page 167, Class 31 (c)).

Do Statutory Undertakers need permission for routine works in the provision/maintenance/overall of their facilities (e.g. Local Authorities, ESB, Telecoms, Iarnrod Eireann, Bord Gais, etc.)?

No, not in the normal way, but, is subject to the consultation procedures contained in Part VIII of the 2001 Planning Regulations as amended.

How long does an applicant have to lodge additional information?

6 months. From 31/03/2003 an additional 3 months can be granted where agreed.

Can I demolish a habitable home without permission?

No, you can demolish part of a habitable home to provide a domestic extension.

What is a Declaration and Referral on Development & Exempted Development (i.e. what is a Declaration of Exemption)?

If a query arises as to whether a proposal requires Planning Permission or whether it is exempted development, a submission may be made, in writing with proposals or maps - the more information the better accompanied by a fee (€80.00). The planner will consider submissions & we reply within 4 weeks as to whether it does require planning permission or not. The applicant can refer the decision to An Bord Pleanala accompanied by a fee (€150.00).
(Section 5, Planning & Development Act, pg 28)

Can photocopies of maps be given out to the public?

Photocopies of maps on planning applications registered before 11-Mar-2002 cannot be issued. Any photocopies of maps on files registered after 11-Mar-2002 must be individually date stamped and a declaration under Section 74 (4) of the Copyright and related Rights Act, 2000 must be signed by the purchaser of the maps and placed on the planning file.

Why is there no water supply to my house?

The water could be turned off to facilitate the repair of a burst watermain in your area. Check with your neighbours to see if they have water. If your neighbours have a water supply, it could mean there's an internal problem within your own property, therefore you would need to source a plumber to check your system.

My drains are blocked. What can I do?

The owner of the property is responsible for the drain all the way to the Council's main sewer, even where the drain runs over a public space, e.g. over the path and/no over the road. When called out, the Council Inspector will be able to locate the site of the blockage by examining the Council's sewer manholes. If the Council's sewer is clear, this means the blockage is in the private drain of the house/houses. In that case, the owner of the house should find a suitable company to clear the blockage. Click on Private Drain Maintenance for more information.

Can I use my central heating if the water is off?

If your central heating system has been installed by a registered contractor, it should be run from a separate expansion tank in the attic. This water should not be affected by a water main shutdown and it should be safe to run the system. However, you should check with your installer/plumber to confirm.

Am I allowed to burn smoky coal in my fireplace?

From the 1st September 2012 it is now an offence to burn "smoky" or bituminous coal anywhere in Dublin City or County, and you can be fined up to €5,000 in court if you do so.
For further information, please click here.

Is it okay to burn waste?

No! Burning household or garden waste is now illegal, and you can be fined up to €3,000 for doing so. "Backyard Burning" is bad for the environment, causes nuisance to neighbours and can also cause health problems.
Click on the following link for further information relating to the Burning of Waste.

What can I do about noisy neighbours?

If you are subjected to noise nuisance from domestic or residential premises you may apply directly to your local District Court for a Court Order under Section 108 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1992. Further information regarding Section 108 Notices and noise pollution is available by clicking on the attached guide to the Noise Regulations Leaflet (pdf - 2.24MB)
Persons affected by noise nuisance caused by tenants in private rented dwellings may also apply directly to the Private Residential Tenacies Board (PRTB) at www.prtb.ie or ph. (01) 635 0600 to resolve the problem. The PRTB can legally direct landlords to ensure that their tenants comply with the terms of their tenacy agreements regarding noise and other forms of anti-social behaviour.
If you are subjected to noise nuisance caused by tenants in Council-owned dwellings, you can make a complaint directly to the Anti-Social Behaviour Section of the Housing Dept.
For further information, please click on the following link to Noise Pollution.

How do I dispose of asbestos?

Asbestos is a form of hazardous waste that is potentially very dangerous to human health, if not handled and disposed of correctly. Asbestos should only ever be removed and transported by specialist waste contractors who have an appropriate permit. Asbestos cannot be brought to Ballyogan Recycling Park or any other Council waste facility.
Click on the following link for further information on asbestos removal and disposal.

What are the permitted times for building works?

While there are no set times in law limiting the working hours on building sites, there are guideline standard times that apply to construction activity. If work takes place outside of these hours, it can then be regarded as a source of noise nuisance, and investigated by the Council’s EHOs (Environmental Health Officers). In addition, restrictions on construction working times can also be imposed by way of planning permission conditions.
The accepted standard times for building activity in Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown are as follows:
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sundays & Bank Holidays: Works not allowed.
However, please note these are guideline times only, and in certain circumstances it may be necessary for building works to take place outside of these hours. In addition, these guideline times do not apply to any kind of emergency works carried out by the ESB, Iarnród Eireann, Bord Gais, etc.
For further information, please click on the following link to Noise Pollution.

How do I dispose of my old car?

Car owners can bring their old vehicles to local ATFs (Automated Treatment Facilities) for environmentally safe disposal and recycling, free of charge. Click on the following link for further information about End of Life Vehicles.
Alternatively, DLR County Council also provides a vehicle collection service for privately owned cars free of charge.

What are the charges for using Ballyogan Recycling Park?

Full details of the range of charges that may apply to householders, and the types of waste material accepted at the Civic Recycling Facility, are available on the Ballyogan Recycling Park web-page.

Where can I dispose of used batteries?

By law, any shop that sells batteries to the public must also take back similiar types of old batteries for recycling, free of charge. Many shops now have blue boxes for battery recycling on display. There is no need to buy any new batteries when you return waste batteries to a shop, and it doesn't matter if you bought your used batteries somewhere else. Waste batteries are also accepted at any of the Council's Recycling Centres. Never put batteries in your household waste bin!
Click on the following link for further information on waste batteries.

What are the WEEE Regulations?

WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment) is basically any type of appliance or device that requires either electrical or battery power in order to operate, and whose owner wishes to dispose of as waste. In addition to larger household items such as televisions, computers, cookers, fridges and washing machines, it also includes smaller personal items such as cameras, toys, watches, mobile phones and MP3 players.
The WEEE Regulations were introduced in 2005 to promote the environmentally responsible disposal, collection, and recycling of electrical goods and appliances in Ireland. One of the main features of the regulations is the free take-back of similar WEEE items on a one-for-one basis that must be offered by retailers to customers when they purchase a new electrical or electronic product.
For further information, please click on the following link to WEEE

What are the Organic Solvents Regulations?

These Regulations exist to regulate the commercial usage of solvents across various sectors of industry in Ireland, (including Dry Cleaning, Printing, Lamination and Surface Coating processes) and thus reduce potential air pollution.
For further detailed information, click on this link to the Regulations

What are the "Deco Paints" Regulations?

These Regulations affect businesses such as crash repair operators that are involved in Vehicle Refinishing activities. The Regulations apply to all commercial operators that use paint products containing Organic Solvents on their premises.
For further detailed information, click on this link to the Deco Paints Regulations

How do I request signing and lining on a road?

The Council receives over 300 requests annually for statutory signing and lining measures.
The Traffic Advisory Group (TAG) deals with all of these requests.
This group was formally established in August 2006 and comprises representatives from An Garda Síochána and engineers of the Traffic Section.
As well as discussing requests received from the public, the elected members, Dublin Bus and business groups, TAG examines issues identified directly by the Traffic Section and An Garda Síochána.
The TAG meets monthly for discussion on an agenda of items, a copy of which is circulated to the elected members for their information. The recommendations of each meeting of the TAG, is brought to the Area Committees for noting under Council Business entitled “Consultation with Garda Commissioner”.
As this is a statutory or legal procedure decided upon by the traffic engineers and An Garda Siochana a formal request for TAG items should be sent by email to traffic@dlrcoco.ie or in writing to the Transportation Department, Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
It is important to outline the reasons for your request and include, if possible, supporting evidence as to why it should be warranted.
A TAG requested can be any of the following:
Stop
yield
no entry
yellow box
hatching
mandatory signs
prohibitory signs
single yellow line
double yellow line
loading bay
school keep clear
disabled persons parking bay
continuous white line
clearway
weight restriction ban
no u-turn
Once a lining or signing request has been provided you are legally required to abide by them or you will be subject to a punishment or penalty.

How do I request renewal of faded road markings?

Requests for renewals of road lining should be submitted via email to traffic@dlrcoco.ie or in writing to the Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
Please give exact details of the locations in question.
The Traffic Engineer will then re-examine the location and if a renewal of lining is warranted the item will be sent to the lining contractor for inclusion in his list of works. Please note that renewals of line markings are not included as part of the TAG process.

Please submit your request in writing to the Transportation Department, Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County County, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin or email traffic@dlrcoco.ie with the details.
There is a standard charge of €100 for administration costs plus an additional charge of €50 if maps/drawings are required.
The report includes any faults reported in the period required, a drawing showing the phase diagram and a copy of the timings.

How do I request a pedestrian crossing in my area?

A pedestrian crossing is a street location where pedestrians have right of way by means of a traffic signal.
You can request a pedestrian crossing in your area by emailing mailto:traffic@dlrcoco.ieor in writing to the Transportation Department, Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin.
Please include the following details:
Your name and address.
The name of the street or road where you wish a pedestrian crossing to be installed.
Why you feel a pedestrian crossing is needed at the location
A photograph of the location (if possible).
Traffic Section will investigate your request, taking into consideration road width, proximity to other crossing points, pedestrian flow counts and traffic volume and accident history to decide if a pedestrian crossing is warranted in that location.
In some circumstances when a traffic light is not warranted, Traffic Section will investigate the provision of a pedestrian refuge/island.

How do I apply for a Temporary Road Closure?

Before any application for a temporary road closure is made, the applicant MUST first contact the Traffic Section of the Transportation Department by emailing traffic@dlrcoco.ie, or phoning (01) 205 4700 to arrange a meeting with the relevant Traffic Area Engineer.
Once you have spoken to a traffic engineer and if a closure is considered suitable you can complete our temporary road closure application form (PDF File - 96 KB) and submit it to Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin for processing.

How do I get traffic calming measures in my estate?

As limited financial resources are available for the implementation of traffic calming measures, the Traffic Section engaged a Consulting Engineer to prioritise all requests for traffic calming in December 2007 as a means to allocate funds appropriately to the areas most in need.
For more information take a look at the “Prioritisation of Traffic Calming Schemes in the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council Area” Report ( 2008).
However, due to subsequent funding restraints Traffic Section will be prioritising the implementation of the 16 schemes identified for Accident Investigation and Prevention (AIP), as identified in the report, once funding is available ahead of the Listing of Prioritised Traffic Calming Schemes. These areas warrant the attention of AIP assessment due to high accident rates on the street(s), junctions and/or areas that surround the evaluated locations.
In the meantime any request for traffic calming will be put on a list for consideration in the drawing up of future traffic calming programmes. Where an estate is not in charge of the Council, the Council is not empowered to provide traffic calming measures in the form of speed reducing ramps, etc. Concerns in relation to speeding, careless or dangerous driving in an area should be brought to the attention of the local Garda Station.

Who do I contact regarding QBC's and cycle-tracks?

Traffic section in conjunction with Transportation Planning and Road Projects Office and the Quality Bus Network Project Office is responsible for the delivery of the Quality Bus Network as outlined in the Dublin Transportation Office Strategy “Platform for Change” and Transport 21.
We continue to implement cycle-tracks, which will continue to be extended in accordance with the our cycling policy document.
We are also continuing our role-out of cycle parking facilities at key locations throughout the county.--

What are the steps involved in building a road or carrying out major road improvements?

The planning for a new road or major road improvement project involves a design and consultation process, which is approved either by the elected Members of the County Council under Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, or by An Bord Pleanála, depending on the size and scope of the project. An Bord Pleanála may hold an Oral Hearing chaired by an Inspector appointed by The Board to hear the evidence of the promoting authority and the submissions of interested parties.

How do I see the details of the proposed project?

Preliminary designs for the project are published by the Council before a public consultation process. Once approved, a detailed design is carried out.
The public consultation period runs for 8 weeks and is advertised in the national press and by leaflet drop in the locality.
The Council holds public information evenings during the consultation period at a venue in the area of the proposed works.
Also, during the consultation period drawings are available for viewing at the Planning Department in County Hall, Dún Laoghaire and at the Council Offices in Dundrum.
Details and drawings for current and proposed projects are also available.

What do I do if my property is affected by a proposed project or road construction works on site?

If you have an interest in or comments to make concerning a proposed road project, you should make a submission during the Public Consultation period, or make contact with the Project Engineer for the County Council whose contact details are given with the details of the scheme. In circumstances where the Council propose to acquire property for a road project, the Council will make direct contact with the owner / occupier.
If any issue arises during the construction of a road, such as access problems, damage, or interruption of water or power, you should contact the Council’s Resident Engineer for the scheme who will assist you.
His / her contact details are distributed by leaflet in the area of the scheme prior to commencement of the works, or are available by contacting the Council’s Road Projects Office on 00 353 (1) 2054839 or by email roadprojects@dlrcoco.ie

How do I report road or footpath defects?

Road or footpath defects such as potholes, cracks, subsidence, etc should be reported to the Road Maintenance Section, Transportation Department.
Reports should include the nature of the defect and the exact location i.e. the address of the premises closest to the defect.
To report defects in the road or footpath you can:
Email: roadmaintenance@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054879
Write to:
Road Maintenance Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

How do I report street light faults?

Public Lighting faults should be reported to the Public Lighting Section, Transportation Department.
Fault reports should include the number of the lamp post, the address closest to the lamp and the nature of the fault i.e: light out / on 24-7 / going on and off, etc.
Public lighting faults can be reported by:
Email to: lighting@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054809
Write to:
Public Lighting Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

What do I do if trees or hedges from private property are overgrowing the public footpath or road?

If trees or bushes from private property are overgrowing onto the road or footpath and causing a hazard the location / address of the problem should be reported to the Road Maintenance Section, Transportation Department.
You can contact the Road Maintenance Section by:
Email: roadmaintenance@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054879
Write to:
Road Maintenance Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

How do I find out who is carrying out road or footpath works?

If there are works in progress that you would like information about i.e. purpose or duration. you can contact the Road Maintenance Section, Transportation Department.
You can contact us by:
Email: roadmaintenance@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054879
Write to:
Road Maintenance Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

Have there been any recent changes in legislation that I should know about?

Yes, recent Government legislation requires us to make some changes to the eligibility criteria for housing support and housing assessment.

What will this mean for me as an existing Social Housing Support applicant?

Under the new regulations, you must be eligible and have a need for housing to be considered for an offer of social housing support.
Social housing support means that you may be eligible for housing in Council owned properties, RAS (Rental Accommodation Scheme) properties, Long Term Leasing properties, Voluntary Housing Association properties etc.

What is the role of the council following the changes in legislation?

The Council are now obliged to begin the process of reassessing all applicants for Social Housing. The process of reassessment may take some time.

Will the re-assessment affect my position on the housing list?

The position of people on the list may change following re-assessment. The eligibility of some people for housing support may also change. While the attached letter details your current position on the Social Housing Support Waiting List, you should note that a full reassessment of your eligibility and need under the new regulations has yet to take place.

Could I be removed from the list?

You will only be removed from the Social Housing Support list if you are not eligible under the new regulations, or if it is established that you do not have a housing need.

If I am eligible to receive social housing support, which areas can I choose?

You may identify up to three housing areas – however, one must be in the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown area. Your other two choices could be in the other Dublin Local Authority areas i.e. Dublin City Council, South Dublin County Council and/or Fingal County Council.
If you so decide, your three choices may all lie within the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council area.
You may change your choice of housing area once in any twelve month period.

Who do I contact in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council if I have further questions?

Account Queries can be directed to the Council’s Waste Charges section on (01) 205 4747. Or by e-mail to charges@dlrcoco.ie.

When is my last collection from Dún Laoghaire- Rathdown County Council?

Your last collection by the Council will be on your normal collection day during the week beginning the 19th July 2010.

Will the Green Bin Recycling service continue?

Yes, Panda will take over the Green Bin service that is currently provided by Greyhound.

Do I keep my 'grey' and 'green' bin?

Yes, if you decide to avail of the Panda service. Otherwise you should contact the Council on (01) 205 4810 and we will arrange to remove your bins.

Will my bins be rebranded?

Yes, Panda will arrange to do this directly in due course.

Will my collection day change?

Your collection day will stay the same for the moment. Although Panda currently collect 80% of their customers on the same day as the Council, it is intended that the same collection day will apply to any single area for both existing Panda customers and the new Council customers, eventually. There will be a gradual rationalisation of routes over time and Panda will notify you in good time of any intended change.

Return them to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (Waste Charges, Finance and Risk Management Department), County Hall, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin for a refund

Does Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council provide a waste collection service?

The Council ceased providing a waste collection service in 2010. Residents in the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown administrative area are now responsible for making their own arrangements to dispose of refuse by engaging the services of a permitted private refuse collecgtor and/or using the recycling and disposal facilities provided by the Council at bottle banks, Ballyogan Recycling Park, Ballyogan Road, Dublin 18 and at Eden Park, Glasthule, and Shanganagh Recycling Centres.

Will Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council continue to provide bottle-banks?

Yes. We will continue to provide recycling facilities at bottle banks, and also at Ballyogan, Eden Park and Shanganagh recycling centres.

What happens to the staff working in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council bin service?

Staff who currently provide the ‘grey’ bin service will either be redeployed or avail of voluntary redundancy. Redeployed staff will contribute to the delivery of improved services across the areas of Street Cleansing, Water & Waste services, Transportation and Parks.There will be no compulsory redundancies.

Who do I contact in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council if I have further questions?

Account Queries can be directed to the Council’s Waste Charges section on (01) 205 4747. Bin service queries can be directed to the Council’s Waste Management section on (01) 205 4810

Summary of Water Charges for 2014

Charge Description
Water only
Waste-water only
Water & Waste-water
Metered Water/Wastewater services - per cubic metre
€1.04
€1.24
€2.28
Metered Mixed Supplies
General Domestic Allowance per residential unit:
165 m3 per annum
55 m3 per four month bill
Per Capita Domestic Allowance (Residential Institutions):
51 m3 per qualifying person per annum
17 m3 per person per four month bill
Standing Charge – per four month bill
Up to 1” or 25mm
€53
Up to 2” or 50mm
€95
Up to 4” or 100mm
€195
Up to 6” or 150mm
€250
Up to 8” or 200mm
€330
Up to 10” or 250mm
€495
Special Read Charge
€150
(Water charges will be based on metered quantities at the unit rates shown in the table above, plus Annual Standing Charge. Fixed or estimated charges on some customers may apply where metering problems arise.)

Who must pay water charges?

All non-domestic users of the water service must pay water charges.
Under the Water Pricing policy, government funding is provided to local authorities for domestic water services only. Domestic water is very strictly defined to mean water for ordinary household purposes within a residential situation.
There is a specific requirement on local authorities to meter and charge for all non-domestic water supplied and there is no discretion for exceptions because there is no other source of funding. As is the case with other utilities, there is no option to waive water charges. However, unlike private utility suppliers, no profit may be made on the service.
It is also hoped that consumers will be conscious of the water they use and will try and conserve water which is a valuable and finite resource. A lot of water is wasted through taps not being turned off when not in use and through leakages in taps and pipes. Charging by volume is in accordance with the application of the “Polluter Pays” Principle and the EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC).

Who bills for non-domestic water?

The relevant Local Authority bills for non-domestic water. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County council will bill for its area.

How is it charged?

THere is an annual standing charge for the available of the service plus a volume charge based on the volume of water used.

Who decides how much I pay?

The charge for water supply and for wastewaster collection and treatment is based on the actual cost of providing the service. Water supplies are metered to the maximum practicable extent and bills are based on this information.

How will I benefit from a water meter?

Water charges are now based on an annual standing charge plus a charge based on the volume used - the less water used, the less you pay. The metering system provides information regarding water usage and will alert the customers and Local Authorities to possible leaks. It may be worthwhile for customers to examine current water usage with a view to economising and conserving water where possible - further advice is available online at www.taptips.ie/at-work.htm . Commercial rates no longer contribute to water services funding.

Where are water meters installed?

In the majority of cases the meters and meter reading equipment is located externally and as close to the property boundary as possible. However in some cases, due to services congestion or limited space, meters have to be installed internally within the premises.

If there is a leak, who is responsible?

The customer is responsible for all leaks downstream of the meter; responsibility extends to payment for all water measured by the meter and location and repair of leaks.
In the majority of circumstances, the council is responsible for leaks upstream or at the customer’s meter. The exception is where it has been necessary to install a meter within a customers premises. In this case, the customer is responsible for leaks upstream of the meter as far as the premises boundary or stopcock in the public area.
In the exceptional circumstance where the meter to customer pipe junction is leaking downstream of the meter, the council may be responsible for the repair of the leak and attributable water usage. Where there is reason to suspect that this is the case, the council will excavate to inspect this junction on payment of a deposit of €750. This deposit and water usage attributable to the leak will be refunded or credited against water charges only where the joint is found to be leaking. Where the connection pipe from the meter to the customer boundary is found to be leaking, the responsibility for water usage rests with the customer as above but the repair will be carried out by the council on the customer’s behalf, the repair cost being set against the deposit.

What happens if there is a business within a home?

If it is not practicable to separately meter the non-domestic usage, a domestic allowance will be applied and deducted from the metered volume of water supplied.

You can pay your water charges by the following methods
By Bank Giro transferA Bank Giro will be attached to your bill.
By PostCheques, Postal Orders or Money Orders
In personAt the Council’s Offices by cheque.
Cash is not accepted at the Council's offices in County Hall or Dundrum. Also, cash should not be sent through the post.

Who do I contact if I have problems with my water or wastewater services?

Rates are a property-based tax levied by Local Authorities on the occupiers of commercial/industrial properties in their administrative area.

What does "Rate is made" mean?

Each year, following the Annual Budget meeting, the Rate books for the County are prepared and are available for inspection by the public for 14 days. After the 14 days the rate is made by the County Manager and the seal of the Council is fixed to the Rate books. This would generally happen late January/early February each year. The date the Rate is made is advertised in the media each year.

What is the money raised through rates used for?

The income generated by rates is used to fund a wide range of services provided by the County Council throughout the County.

What is Rateable Valuation?

All properties are given a rateable valuation by the Commissioner of Valuation in the Valuation Office. The Commissioner of Valuation is independent of Local Authorities.

What is Annual Rate of Valuation?

Following the consideration of the Annual Budget each year, the elected members of the County Council (Councillors) determine the Annual rate of valuation to be levied for the following year.

Rates are calculated by multiplying the valuation of your property by the annual rate on valuation (ARV). The Commissioner of Valuation is responsible for valuations and the Local Authority for the ARV. Both of these terms are clarified as follows:
Valuation: The valuation of property is determined by the Commissioner of Valuation. The basis of valuation is the Net Annual Value (NAV) i.e. the open market rental value of the property at a specified valuation date. For the purposes of revaluation in Dún Laoghaire the relevant valuation date was the 30th September 2005.
Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV):The "Annual Rate on Valuation" (formerly known as "the rate in the pound"), is in effect a multiplier, and it is determined by the Council at its Annual Budget Meeting. The rate" is then made by the County Manager following a public notification process. The annual rate on valuation for 2013 is €0.1666. Both the valuation and ARV are shown on your rates bill and a sample calculation would be as follows:
Eg. Rateable Valuation x
Annual Rate of Valuation =
Rates
€100,000
€0.1666
€16,660

When do the rates become due?

Rates are payable in two moieties (i.e. two instalments), the first moiety when the rate is made and on receipt of the rates bill by the occupier of the premises and the second moiety by the 1st July. As an alternative, Ratepayers can opt to pay by monthly direct debit.

How do I pay my rates?

You can pay your rates by the following methods:
By Direct DebitYou can pay your rates in monthly instalments over the course of one year.
Commercial Rates Direct Debit Mandate (pdf -40kb) Word doc 146 KB
By Bank Giro Credit Transfer/EFTA Bank Giro is attached to your Rate Demand.
To your Rate CollectorSee details below
By PostCheques, Money Order and Postal Orders.
In personAt the Council’s Offices in Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum Cash is not accepted at the Council's offices in County Hall or Dundrum. Also, cash should not be sent through the post.

Who is my Rate Collector?

There are there Rate Collectors in the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown area. The Rate Collectors are responsible for collection rates in their own areas.
Blackrock/Dún Laoghaire/Stillorgan
P.J. Meagher is acting as Rate Collector for the area from the County boundary with Dublin City to the centre of Dún Laoghaire. His areas include Booterstown, Blackrock, Monkstown, Part of Dún Laoghaire from the Monkstown towards Royal Marine Road and Stillorgan/Clonskeagh. He can be contacted at (01) 205 4798 or 086 8585867or via e-mail at pjmeagher@dlrcoco.ie.
Dún Laoghaire/Shankill
Emma Hynes is the Rate Collector for the area from the centre of Dún Laoghaire to the County boundary with Bray. Her areas include part of Dún Laoghaire from Royal Marine Road towards Glasthule, Glasthule, Dalkey, Shankill, Cherrywood, Foxrock. She can be contacted at (01) 205 4895 or 086 0204632 or via e-mail at ehynes@dlrcoco.ie.
Dundrum/Sandyford
Barbara Hanney is the Rate Collector for the west side of the County. Her areas include Dundrum, Stillorgan, Sandyford, Rathfarnham and Churchtown. She can be contacted at (01) 204 7088 or 086 1714135 or via e-mail at bhanney@dlrcoco.ie.

Must I pay rates if my property is vacant?

If a property is vacant on the day the rate is made (24th January 2013) and is available for letting or undergoing refurbishment the rates must still be paid to the Council. The Ratepayer may get a rates refund provided the full year’s rates have been paid and certain conditions have been met.
The Ratepayer will need to complete a Vacancy Refund Form (Rates) (pdf -59kb) , statutory undertaking and provide documentary evidence of his/her attempts to let or refurbish the property.

If a tenant moves into a premises and there are rates due on it, can the tenant be held liable?

A subsequent occupier may be held liable for arrears of rates for up to two years from the making of the rate. It is up to the new occupier to ensure that all rates, including the current year’s rates, and all other liabilities (e.g. water/ environmental waste charges) are paid before the closing of a sale or the assignment of a lease of any rateable property.

What happens if I do not pay my Rates?

If rates are not paid, legal proceedings will be initiated for the collection of the debt.

What are the contact details of the Rates Section in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council?

If you are unhappy with the Valuation as revised by the Revision officer, there is a further right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. The Valuation Tribunal is an independent body set up to settle disputed valuations.
You must apply in writing the Valuation Tribunal within 28 days of receiving your notification of decision from the Revision Officer. It must be accompanied by the appropriate fee.
The contact details for the Valuation Tribunal are:
Floor oneOrmond HouseOrmond Quay UpperDublin 7
Phone: (01) 872 8177 Fax: (01) 872 8060 E-mail: info@valuation-trib.ie
The decision of the Valuation Tribunal is final, subject to an appeal to the High Court on a point of law.

What is the Entry Year Property Levy and am I liable?

The Entry Year Property Levy is a charge which the Local Authority applies to all newly erected or newly constructed properties pending the levying of commercial rates. It has been introduced for the first time in 2007 under the Local Government (Business Improvement istricts) Act 2006, which was enacted on the 24th December 2006.

What is Revaluation?

A revaluation is the production of an up-to-date Valuation List of all commercial and industrial property, within a rating authority area, by reference to property rental values at the specified valuation date, which, in the case of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area, was the 30th September 2005. Revaluation will result in a redistribution of commercial rates liability between ratepayers.

Who is responsible for Revaluation?

The Commissioner of Valuation initiated the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown revaluation in accordance with the powers vested in him under the Valuation Act 2001, after the required statutory consultation with both the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. He made a Valuation Order on the 27th of June 2008 which started the process in the County of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.

Why did the Commissioner of Valuation initiate the Revaluation process?

The former Valuation Lists did not reflect the major shifts in property values that have occurred over the years. The Commissioner sought to bring more equity, fairness and transparency into the Local Authority rating system by having valuations in line with more up to date property rental values. This is to ensure Local Authority commercial rates are assessed on the basis of an up-to-date list of valuations of commercial and industrial properties.

The Valuation date of the 30th September 2005 is surely irrelevant having regard to downturn the market?

Nobody could be blamed for reaching that conclusion. The follow on to this is that ratepayers will think their rates assessment is higher than it should be because their rental values have now dropped. This is not the case. The base valuation date is largely irrelevant as the Council’s multiplier (the ARV) is altered to ensure the same levels of rates are payable, regardless of the Valuation date.

How does this distribution of Rates Liability Work?

An example is the best way to explain this. Look at the following:
Property A
Property B
Property C
Total Rates
Rateable Valuation
€200
€200
€200
ARV – Pre Revaluation
€69.20
€69.20
€69.20
Rates Liability – Pre Revaluation
€13,840
€13,840
€13,840
€41,520
Rental Value
€60,000
€81,500
€100,000
ARV Post Revaluation
€0.170
€0.170
€0.170
Rates Liability After Revaluation
€10,200
€13,855
€17,000
€41,055
Before revaluation, each property had the same valuation and the same rates assessment. The total rates take for the Council is €41,520. After revaluation the rateable valuations now reflect the open market rental values (as at the valuation date of the 30th September 2005). You can see, following revaluation, that property A has a decreased rates assessment, property B is virtually unchanged while property C gets an increased assessment. The Council’s overall take is also less.

Will the revaluation process increase my rates bill?

Revaluation is a distribution of rates liability between Ratepayers. While 60% of Ratepayers will have a decease or no change in their rates assessment this year, 40% unfortunately will have an increased assessment following revaluation and if you are in this bracket it is important that you are aware of your right of appeal - you have up until the 8th February 2011 to exercise this right.

What if i already made "representations" when the proposed Valuation Certificates issued last year?

The Commissioner of Valuation considered over 2,200 individual representations from ratepayers before issuing his final Valuation Certificates. If you already made representations that have been determined by the Commissioner, you still have the right of appeal. However you should bear in mind that the Commissioner would have taken into account the matters raised by you in your representations prior to issuing a final Valuation Certificate.

I have received my Final Valuation Certificate from the Valuation Office. What should I do now?

You should examine all of the documentation sent to you by the Valuation Office, particularly the extract from the Valuer’s Report, and ensure you are satisfied that it is correct. You will also have received from the Council a letter in January indicating your rates liability for 2011, the valuation of your property and the latest date for submission of appeals.
As part of the revaluation process, draft Valuation Certificates were issued to Ratepayers in June and September of last year. At that time, ratepayers were invited to make representations to the Commissioner of Valuation. Over 2,200 ratepayers made representations. Any representations made were taken into consideration by the Commissioner prior to the issue of final Valuation Certificates.
If you are dissatisfied with the Commissioner’s determination of your valuation, you can appeal his decision. You have up until the 8th February 2011 to make your appeal. The Commissioner of Valuation will consider your appeal and make a decision within 6 months of receiving the appeal.

What if I am still unhappy with my valuation after this appeal?

There is a further right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. To be valid, an appeal to the Valuation Tribunal must follow the determination of the initial appeal by the Commissioner of Valuation. It must be in writing and must specify the grounds of appeal. The appeal must be made within 28 days and must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. For more information on the Valuation Tribunal visit www.valuation-trib.ie/

Is the Valuation Tribunal's decision final?

The decision of the Valuation Tribunal is final on the amount of the valuation. However, there is a further right of appeal to the High Court on a point of law and ultimately to the Supreme Court.

Where can I get further information on my valuation or the revaluation process?

I had heard that the Council had reduced its “rate” by 2% but yet many ratepayers have had an increase in their rates assessment for this year. Why is this?

The “rate” is normally the term associated with the ARV which is determined by the Council. We cannot compare the ARV for 2011 (€0.170) with that for 2010 (€69.20) as the ARV for 2011 is really a starting point following revaluation.
As with any exercise of the nature of a general revaluation of commercial properties certain categories of Ratepayers will enjoy a net gain, others will not. And even within those categories of properties where the overall rates burden will have decreased certain individual properties will show an increase in their rates liability. The revaluation process, undertaken by the Commissioner of Valuation in accordance with legislation, has resulted in 56% of ratepayers enjoying decreased rates bills, 4% seeing no change & 40% unfortunately having an increased bill.
What the Council has done in recognition of the difficulties re-valuation has caused many Ratepayers is to drop its rates income from what it could have been (€91.3m), as provided for in the revaluation legislation, to €88.9m, a decrease of 2.6% which has had the effect of bringing the ARV down to €0.170 instead of the higher figure permissible under the legislation of €0.174.

Will the revaluation increase the commercial rates income for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council?

No. The Valuation Act 2001 provides that the rates income collectible by a Council in the year immediately following revaluation cannot exceed the previous year’s rates income other than by the increase attributable to inflation. If the Council had adopted an ARV allowed for under the legislation the ARV in 2011 would have been €.0174. However, Members adopted an ARV of €0.170, 2.3% less than that permissible under the legislation. Furthermore, the Council has suffered a significant financial loss attributable to the Re-Valuation process arising from the necessity to make provision for any potential losses arising from appeals to the Valuation Office/Valuation Tribunal in 2011. It can therefore be seen that the Council did not benefit in any financial manner from the Re-Valuation process and in actuality Re-Valuation has resulted in a very significant negative impact on the Council’s finances.

The ARV in 2010 was €69.20. This year it is €0.170. Why such a difference?

The reason for this is due to the revaluation process (Explained further below). In 2010 the total rateable valuation of all property in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area was approximately €1,287,000. The Council’s required rates income for the year was €89,060,500 giving an ARV (multiplier) of €69.20 (€89,060,500/ €1,287,000 = €69.20).
Under revaluation all valuations increased to reflect open market rental values at the 30th September 2005. This means that in 2011 the total valuation of all properties in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area is €523,206,100. The Council’s required rates income for the year is €88,899,100 giving an ARV (multiplier) of €0.170 (€88,899,100/ €523,206,100 = €0.170).

Did the Council financially benefit from Revaluation?

As outlined in the previous paragraph the Valuation Act 2001 provides that the rates income collectible by a Council in the year immediately following revaluation cannot exceed the previous year’s rates income other than by the increase attributable to inflation. If the Council had adopted an ARV allowed for under the legislation the ARV in 2011 would have been €.0174.
However, Members adopted an ARV of €0.170, 2.3% less than that permissible under the legislation. Furthermore, the Council has suffered a significant financial loss attributable to the Re-Valuation process arising from the necessity to make provision for any potential losses arising from appeals to the Valuation Office/Valuation Tribunal in 2011. It can therefore be seen that the Council did not benefit in any financial manner from the Re-Valuation process and in actuality Re-Valuation has resulted in a very significant negative impact on the Council’s finances.

Under the legislation, I understand that the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government imposed a limit on Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown’s rates income for this year. Can you clarify?

This is correct. Under the Valuation Act 2001 (S.56), the Minister made a Limitation Order the effect of which was to allow for an increase in the Council’s rates income taking account of inflation using the CPI index year on year. It meant the maximum ARV the Council could fix in 2011 was €0.174. The Council’s budgetary objective was to try and limit the impact of revaluation on those ratepayers whose valuations increased. The Council decided therefore to reduce the ARV from that permissible to €0.170. This meant the Council had to make further cost savings of €2.3m to fund the reduction in the ARV in order to present a balanced budget.

Who do I contact if I have a query on my rates bill?

Ratepayers should contact the Rate Collector for their area. Ratepayers can also contact the Rates Office at 01-2054821 or email rates@dlrcoco.ie
Blackrock/Dún Laoghaire/Stillorgan
P.J. Meagher is acting as Rate Collector for the area from the County boundary with Dublin City to the centre of Dún Laoghaire. His areas include Booterstown, Blackrock, Monkstown, Part of Dún Laoghaire from the Monkstown towards Royal Marine Road and Stillorgan/Clonskeagh. He can be contacted at (01) 205 4798 or 086 8585867or via e-mail at pjmeagher@dlrcoco.ie.
Dún Laoghaire/Shankill
Emma Hynes is the Rate Collector for the area from the centre of Dún Laoghaire to the County boundary with Bray. Her areas include part of Dún Laoghaire from Royal Marine Road towards Glasthule, Glasthule, Dalkey, Shankill, Cherrywood, Foxrock. She can be contacted at (01) 205 4895 or 086 0204632 or via e-mail at ehynes@dlrcoco.ie.
Dundrum/Sandyford
Barbara Hanney is the Rate Collector for the west side of the County. Her areas include Dundrum, Stillorgan, Sandyford, Rathfarnham and Churchtown. She can be contacted at (01) 204 7088 or 086 1714135 or via e-mail at bhanney@dlrcoco.ie.

Housing Areas

You may apply to one Local Authority only. If you are applying to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council you can choose up to three housing areas in the Dublin region, at least one of which must be in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
Your other two areas may be in Dublin City, South Dublin County or Fingal County. If you opt for an area in any other county, we will forward your information to the housing authorities chosen. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council will manage your application. Changes of areas of choice may be made once in any twelve month period by completing Area Of Choice Form.

What happens if I refuse an offer of housing?

Should you refuse two offers of housing within a twelve month period your application will be suspended for twelve months. Your application will be re-activated after this period however this suspension will not count as time on the housing list. You will not be on the Council’s Housing List for the suspension period and will not have access to Choice Based Letting or eligible for any social housing support. Your entitlement to Supplementary Rent Allowance may also be affected .

Am I eligible for Council Housing?

Criteria for eligibility for Council housing are included in the Council's Allocation Scheme.
Eligibility criteria include:
Need-You must be in genuine need of housing and be unable to provide accommodation from your own resources
Right to live in Ireland-You must have a legal right to remain in the State on a long term basis
Age-You must be 18 years of age or older
Income – your net income must be below the thresholds below:-
Single Adult: €35,000
2 Adults No Children: €36,750
1 Adult & 1 Child: €35,875
1 Adult & 2 Children: €36,750
2 Adults & 1 Child: €37,625
2 Adults & 2 Children: €38,500
2 Adults & 3 Children: €39,375
2 Adults & 4 or more Children: €40,250
3 Adults & 4 or more Children: €42,000

Housing Welfare Officer

The Housing Welfare Officer provides an efficient and professional housing related service in a holistic manner to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council tenants and applicants in need of support.
Self referals and Agency referrals may apply directly to the Housing Welfare Officer: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Housing Department, County Hall, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire.
Contact Numbers: 01 2047259 or 01 2054792

What happens if I fall into rent arrears?

Tenants who find themselves in arrears should not ignore the problem
Arrears should be paid immediately
If it is not possible to pay the arrears immediately tenants should contact the rent arrears section as soon as possible by phoning 01 2054841 or via email rents@dlrcoco.ie to discuss a repayment plan.
If a repayment plan is put in place to pay the rent and arrears over a period of time this agreement must be adhered to.
Please note that if arrears persist the Council may be forced to initiate legal proceedings to repossess the property.

What do I do if a family member/partner wishes to move into the property?

No one can move into a property without notifying and receiving permission from the Housing Department (Allocations). If anyone is planning to move into a Council property they should contact Housing Allocations on 01 2054828 to obtain a Permission to Reside form. Please be aware that the weekly rent may increase with the addition of an extra person and this additional rent will be back-dated to when the person moved in.

What do I do if a household member moves out of the property?

Please notify the Housing Department immediately if a member of your household moves out
Documentary evidence of change of address (e.g. lease agreement, utility bill etc.) must be provided to remove an occupant from the rent account

How do I check my rent balance?

A balance can be given over the phone or via email to the tenant of the property only. Please phone 01-2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie
Please note that we can only discuss tenancy matters with the named tenant of the property, unless an agreement is in place for a third party to act/speak on the tenant’s behalf
A statement is issued to tenants every three months. Tenants can check their receipts/payments against this statement.

Do I have to fill in a household information form each year?

Yes, it is a requirement of your tenancy agreement
·It is very important that tenants fill in the household information form correctly each year and supply us with current income details for all members of the household. This enables us to calculate a weekly rent which is accurate based on the income details provided.
The Council should be immediately notified if there is a change in income details of any of the members of the household during the year. If there is a delay in doing this back dated debits may be applied to your account.
Click for household information form

How do I apply for Traveller Specific Accommodation?

It is Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s policy is to provide traveller specific accommodation for the county’s indigenous Travelling Community. If you wish to apply for Traveller Specific Accommodation, you can contact the Traveller Accommodation unit at 01 2054848 or email travellers@dlrcoco.ie.

Who do I contact regarding repairs?

Tenants of Grouped housing and Halting site bays may contact the Traveller Accommodation Unit at 01 2054838 or email travellers@dlrcoco.ie. Tenants are advised to consult their Tenant Handbook prior to contacting the Traveller Accommodation Unit.

What is the purpose of the dlr Traveller Interagency Steering Group?

The dlr Traveller Interagency Steering Group is set up to co-ordinate services by all agencies that provide services to the Traveller Community. It is representative of manages in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdwon County Council, Housing Service Executive, Garda, Department of Education, Department of Social Protection, VEC and County Development Board.

Who do I contact regarding illegal encampment in a public area?

Notify the Traveller Accommodation Unit at 01 2054838 or email travellers@dlrcoco.ie
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council does not have the remit to remove illegal encampments from private property. Illegal encampments on private property are a matter for the landowner.

Who represents the Travelling Community?

The Traveller Accommodation Unit works in conjunction with the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee representative of County Councillors, Travellers and Traveller Representatives as required under the Housing (Traveller) Accommodation Act 1998. This Committee advise the Council on all matters relating to travellers and in particular their housing needs.

Am I eligible for a Housing Aid for Older People Grant?

All applications for grant aid under this scheme are means tested and the level of grant is determined as follows, the annual gross income of the registered property owner together with all household members over 18 (or 23 if in full time education) in the previous tax year up to a maximum income of €60,000, (some applicants may qualify for certain income disregards).

What type of work is covered by the grant?

The only works available under this scheme are re-wiring, re-roofing and the provision of central heating (where none exists).
N.B. Central Heating – There is no grant available under this scheme for upgrading an existing central heating system. These grants are available from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland at 1850 927000 or www.seai.ie

Am I eligible for a grant?

All applications for grant aid under this scheme are means tested and the level of grant is determined as follows, the annual gross income of the registered property owner together with all household members over 18 (or 23 if in full time education) in the previous tax year up to a maximum income of €60,000, (some applicants may qualify for certain income disregards).

I am liable for some years?

If you are liable there may be a penalty for late payment..

I paid NPPR but cannot remember details?

In order for us to assist locating a payment it is best to supply your PPS number and or the NPPR registration number which may have been emailed to you when you paid.

I sent in a 'Change of Address form' (RFA3) yet I am still listed at my previous address?

Once the Register comes into force on 15th February each year it cannot be amended. Your details will be changed in the background and if an election/referendum is called during the life of the Register you will not receive a polling card for your previous address.

I have changed address after the Register came into force on 15th February, can I be included on the Register at my new address if an Election/Referendum is called?

You can apply to be included on a Supplement to the Register by completing a Supplement Application Form (RFA3), having the form witnessed at a Garda Station and returned to us before the closing date to be included on the supplement.

I am on the Register and have now become an Irish Citizen after the Register came into force on 15th February, can my citizenship be changed on the Register if an Election/Referendum is called?

You can complete an application form (RFA5) for inclusion in the Supplement to the Register of Electors, having the form witnessed at a Garda Station and must attach evidence of your Irish citizenship, for example, a copy of your Certificate of Naturalisation or the relevant page in your Irish Passport.

I applied to be included on the Supplement but cannot see myself on line?

The Supplement is only put up on line after the closing date for inclusion.

An Election/Referendum is called and I am not registered, can I vote?

No. You must be on the Register to be able to vote.

What does Election type mean?

Presidential : Resident Irish citizens can vote in Referendum or
Presidential Election, Dáil Elections, European
Elections and Local Elections.
Dáil: Resident British citizens (D) can vote in Dáil
Elections, European Elections and Local Elections.
European: Resident EU citizens (E) can vote in European
Elections and Local Elections.
Local: Resident Non-EU citizens (L) can vote in Local
Elections.
*as indicated on the register.

What is the PPN?

The Public Participation Network (PPN) aims to enable the public as well as local organisations to voice their views and interests within the local government system. It is the main framework for public participation and engagement. Membership is open to not for profit groups in the social inclusion, environmental and general community and voluntary sectors.
www.dlrppn.ie

What is a Community Small Arts Grant?

A Community Small Arts Grant is intended to assist individual artists or bodies organise a small scale community based arts event that promotes the arts in the community and improves appreciation of the arts, access to the arts and standards in the arts in the community. Activities such as community/amateur art exhibitions, community publications of a creative writing nature and amateur musical/dramatic societies are eligible under this category.

Under the Planning regulations how long do the public have to lodge objections to additional information?

Use our Planning Deadline Calendar to calculate the last date for making an objection.
In accordance with Article 35 of the Planning and Development Regulations, persons who made a submission or observation on a planning application will only be notified of the receipt of Additional Information or Clarification of Additional Information, where that AI or CAI is considered significant and requires new public notices. Objectors have 2 weeks ( 5 weeks in case of applications accompanied by an EIS) from the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the revised notices, to make further submissions/observations. No further fee is required. Other persons wishing to make a submission/observation will be required to pay the prescribed fee.
Please note that anyone other than the applicant can make an objection/observation on a planning application.

If I wish to make an objection to a Planning Application, when can I do so?

Use our Planning Deadline Calendar to calculate the last date for making an objection.
Submissions/observations must be made within 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the planning application. The five week period commences on the day that a planning application is received, such that the last day for receipt for an objection to an application received on Tuesday 1 November is Monday 5 December. If the last day of this five week period falls on a Saturday, Sunday or Public Holiday, submissions/observations can be accepted on the next working day.
Please note that anyone other than the applicant can make an objection/observation on a planning application.
For more information on the objections process please visit our Planning Objections Page

Who are the Designated Public Officials in Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Please click here to view the 40 elected members of dlr county.
Please also see below the designated public officials of dlr:
Philomena Poole
Chief Executive
Mary T Daly
Directorate of Corporate, Communications and Governance with responsibility for Meetings Administration, Facilities Management, Local Elections, Corporate Policy and Communications Office. This also includes Tourism and Twinning & IT.
Anne Devine
Directorate of Forward Planning and Infrastructure, including Cherrywood SDZ and Active Land Management.
Frank Austin
Directorate of Infrastructure and Climate Change with responsibility for the Capital Programme, Roads Planning, Property Management, Environment Planning and Enforcement.
Helena Cunningham
Directorate of Finance and Economic Development including Risk Management with responsibility for Payroll, Accounts Payable, Rates, Debt Management, Financial Management and Risk Management. Development and implementation of the Local Economic and Community Plan and Economic Development, including the LEO office.
Mary Henchy
Directorate of Planning and Human Resources with responsibility for Forward Planning, Development Management, and Building Control.
Catherine Keenan
Directorate of Housing with responsibility for Housing - Construction, Acquisition, Maintenance, Applications, Allocations, Rents, Loans and Grants, Traveller Accommodation Provision and Management.
Tom McHugh
Directorate of Municipal Services with responsibility for Parks, Sport, Heritage, Cemeteries, Events, Concerts, Village renewal, Beaches, Water Safety, Casual Trading, Road Sweeping, Roads Maintenance, Public Lighting, Traffic, Car Parking, Water and Drainage Services, Major Emergency Management, Machinery Yard.
Dearbhla Lawson
Directorate of Community and Cultural Development with responsibility for Community Development, Community Facilities, Estate Management, LCDC, PPN, Social Inclusion and JPCs Cultural Development, Library Services and Arts, Age Friendly, Creative Ireland, Children's Services and Music Generation.

How frequent are the meetings:

The SPC meetings take place on a quarterly basis (usually March, June, September and December)

In accordance with the provisions of the legislation and guidelines from The Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, the membership of the SPCs will consist of two thirds Councillors and one third sectoral representatives. The following shall apply in relation to the membership of SPCs
• Each Councillor will be a member of 2 SPCs;
• Every member of an SPC will hold office for the lifetime of the Council
(normally five years);
• If a Councillor member of an SPC ceases to be a Councillor he or she
will also automatically cease to be a member of an SPC;
• Each nominating sector is entitled to deselect its nominees as
required.
• A sector may be represented on more than one SPC
(full details are available in the DLR Strategic Policy Committee Scheme 2014-2019)
Vacancies in the membership of the SPCs are a matter for approval by the Councillors. If a Councillor vacancy arises, the Members of the Council approve and adopted the Councillor to fill the vacancy.
If a vacancy arises from the sectoral representation, a nomination is received from the sector where the vacancy has arisen, the nomination is presented to the Members of the Council for their adoption

A chairpersons report is a report that is prepared after the SPC meeting by the Chairperson to outline what matters were dealt with at the meeting.
Chairpersons report are included on the County Council agenda for noting by Members and are then published on the Council’s website (above this page).

What is the opening fee for coffin burial?

€1000

How do I go about transferring a grave?

If you want to transfer the ownership of a grave an exclusive right of burial may be transferred to a specific family member. Permission must be sought from the Registered Owner of the grave. It is not necessary to produce the original Grave Paper issued, all registered owners are on our records.
A Transfer Agreement Form (which may be obtained from the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office) has to be completed and signed by the current registered owner at the time of transfer.
If the Registered Owner of the grave is deceased a Derivative Assignment Declaration Form (which can also be obtained from the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office) must be signed and witnessed before a Peace Commissioner by the person who wishes to take over the ownership of the grave. A Permission Form from the relevant next of kin of the registered owner may also be required which states they have no objection to the transfer of the grave, this form does not have to be witnessed by a Peace Commissioner, it should be attached to the Derivative Assignment Declaration.
There is a transfer fee of €65.00 + Vat @ 23% Total Cost: €79.95Payable by Cheque/Draft, Postal Money Order made payable to
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council or by Debit/Credit Card.Card transactions can only be made in person in the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office.
Completed forms and transfer fee should be sent to:
Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office,Dean’s Grange Road,Blackrock,Co. Dublin.
Or call in person to the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office
Opening hours:10.00a.m. – 1.00p.m. – 2.15p.m – 4.00p.m. Monday to Friday
When all documentation and fee is received, in due course, the new owner will receive a document stating the grave has been transferred into their name.

1. Engage a monumental sculptor/stone mason. 2. This sculptor must then submit a drawing to the Office at Dean’s Grange specifying the exact measurements of the work he his going to carry out. 3.This drawing MUST be signed by the owner of the grave. If the registered owner is deceased, the relevant form must be signed by the next of kin of the deceased agreeing to the work being proposed. Proof of grave purchase, if purchased in the previous five years prior to application must also be provided. The same rule applies in the case of a replacement headstone, except there is no fee, as the foundation fees would already have been paid. 4. The only materials accepted by the Council are limestone, granite or marble. The cemetery foundation fee (for a single grave) is:​​​ ​€220 + VAT @ 13.5% Total Cost €249.70 for headstone only €370 + VAT @ 13.5% Total Cost €419.95 for headstone and kerbing €265 + VAT @ 13.5% Total Cost €300.78 for kerbing where headstone exists. Please note that no kerbing is allowed in Shanganagh cemetery as it is a Lawn Cemetery or in “The Garden” section in Dean’s Grange Cemetery as this is also a lawned area.

The occupier on the date on which the rate is made is primarily liable for the full year’s rates.
However, if a property is vacant, the owner or person "entitled to occupy" on the date the rate is made is liable for payment of the rates but will qualify for a refund of the rates paid subject to satisfying certain specified criteria which are outlined on the Vacancy Terms & Conditions Checklist.
Please visit our dedicated page to Commercial Rates Vacancy Refunds for more information.

Who is not liable for Commercial Rates?

Under Schedule 4 of the Valuation Act 2001 the following are classed as non-rateable and would therefore have no Commercial Rates due on them;
Agricultural Land
Domestic Premises
Religious Buildings
Burial Grounds
Not for profit Organisations
> Caring for sick people
> Schools/Colleges
> Art Galleries/Museums
Community Halls
Charitable Organisations (with the exception of Charity Shops)
Constituency Offices

What if I am still unhappy with my revised valuation?

If you are unhappy with the Valuation as revised by the Revision officer, there is a further right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. The Valuation Tribunal is an independent body set up to settle disputed valuations.
You must apply in writing the Valuation Tribunal within 28 days of receiving your notification of decision from the Revision Officer. It must be accompanied by the appropriate fee.
The contact details for the Valuation Tribunal are:
Floor oneOrmond HouseOrmond Quay UpperDublin 7
Phone: (01) 872 8177Fax: (01) 872 8060E-mail: info@valuation-trib.ie
The decision of the Valuation Tribunal is final, subject to an appeal to the High Court on a point of law.

What is the Valuation Office?

The Valuation Office is the State property valuation agency. The core business of the Valuation Office is the provision of accurate, up to date valuations of commercial and industrial properties to ratepayers and rating authorities as laid down by statute (principally the Valuation Act 2001).
The Office also provides consultancy services to other Government Departments, Local Authorities, Health Boards and the Revenue Commissioners. For more information on the Valuation Office, please visit their website at http://www.valoff.ie/en/

Rates are calculated by multiplying the valuation of your property by the annual rate on valuation (ARV). The Commissioner of Valuation is responsible for valuations and the Local Authority for the ARV. Both of these terms are clarified as follows:
Valuation: The valuation of property is determined by the Commissioner of Valuation. The basis of valuation is the Net Annual Value (NAV) i.e. the open market rental value of the property at a specified valuation date. For the purposes of revaluation in Dún Laoghaire the relevant valuation date was the 30th September 2005.
Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV): The "Annual Rate on Valuation" (formerly known as "the rate in the pound"), is in effect a multiplier, and it is determined by the Council at its Annual Budget Meeting. The "rate" is then made by the Chief Executive following a public notification process. The annual rate on valuation for 2018 is €0.1673. Both the valuation and ARV are shown on your rates bill and a sample calculation would be as follows:
Rateable Valuation x Annual Rate of Valuation = Rates
eg. €100,000 x €0.1673 = €16,730.00

How long will it take before I get offered housing?

Unfortunately this cannot be determined.

Am I eligible to apply for HAP?

Persons applying for HAP must be a qualified housing applicant(s) before they can apply. For more information on applying for social housing please click here.

As a Landlord will HAP affect my relationship with the tenant?

No. The contract will be a private contract between the tenant and the landlord. The HAP tenant is the landlords tenant and not a tenant of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

All rent payments to the landlord are made electronically on the last Wednesday of every month.

What Areas can HAP tenants be HAP'd into from Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

What is the HAP Transfer List?

HAP recipients move off the councils main Social Housing Waiting list onto the HAP Transfer List, retaining their time built up while on the original list.
The HAP transfer list runs side by side with the Social Housing Waiting list and will receive a precentage of dwelling allocations provided by the councl.

Why become a HAP landlord?

Why become a HAP tenant?

HAP allows recipients to take up full-time employment, while still receiving housing support
The rent contribution payable by the HAP recipient will be based on the differential rent scheme for their local authority. This scheme links the rent contribution a household must pay to the household income and the ability to pay
HAP will help to regulate the private rental sector and improve standards of accommodation. Properties will be inspected to make sure that they meet the required standards
HAP recipients will be able to avail of other social housing supports and options, if they so choose
Local authorities will be responsible for all housing supports in their area.

Why become a HAP landlord?

For landlords/agents:
The landlord or their agent will receive prompt payments directly from the local authority on a monthly basis, subject to the HAP recipient paying the local authority their rent contribution. All payments will be made electronically; there will be no need for rent collection from tenants who are HAP recipients leading to administrative savings for landlords
Landlords who rent to tenants in receipt of social housing supports like the housing assistance payment (HAP) may avail of increased tax relief under a new scheme from 1 January 2016. The new scheme will allow property owners to claim 100 per cent relief on their mortgage interest, as an expense against rental income. Further information is also available from the Revenue Commissioners on www.revenue.ie

What is the closing date for Grant Applications?

Applications can be received by hand or post up until 5pm on Friday 20th April 2018.
Applications by email will be accepted up until midnight on Friday 20th April 2018 - email address is grantschemes@dlrcoco.ie

Where can I get more information?

A copy of the full guidelines is available on the council’s website www.dlrcoco.ie or you can contact the Community Development and Social Inclusion Section on 01 2054893. You can also attend an information evening which will be run in March 2018.

Must I pay Rates if my property is vacant?

If a property is vacant on the day the rate is made and is available for letting or undergoing refurbishment the rates must still be paid to the Council. The Ratepayer may get a rates refund provided the full year’s rates have been paid and certain conditions have been met.
The Ratepayer will need to complete a Rates Vacancy Application Form statutory undertaking and provide documentary evidence of his/her attempts to let or refurbish the property.
For 2015 and 2016, the refund available is limited to 75% of the rates. For 2017, the refund available is a maximum of 50% of the rates assessed for that year.
However the 2018 budget has made a provision for a Vacant Property Assistance Scheme for ratepayers whose rate account was assessed at €10,000 or less for 2017. It provides for a relief equivalent to 8% of the rates bill assessed on eligible properties.

What is a Community Estate Enhancement Grant intended for?

The purpose of a Community Estate Enhancement Grant is to assist community groups who are trying to improve their local environment through projects or activities of an environmental nature at community level.

Who is the contractor for the baths redevelopment?

SIAC-Mantovani – a joint venture for this project. Mantovani, an Italian company, are specialists in marine works

What works will be carried out at the baths development?

The Dún Laoghaire Baths is an iconic site in the county. The new Baths will mean enhanced and free public facilities for all swimmers and sea sports enthusiasts to the sea at Dún Laoghaire.
The development represents a significant, long term investment in this public facility and will provide improved connectivity with the Metals Walkway and the People’s Park and will link Dún Laoghaire town directly to its seafront.
The development will retain the existing Baths Pavilion for use as artist workspaces and a café with terrace offering panoramic views over Scotsman’s Bay. A new jetty and changing areas will provide access to the water’s edge for swimmers and landing points for kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, etc. New public toilet facilities at street level will be fully accessible.
The new baths facility will be a long-term local amenity for the area and will provide connectivity with other local amenities in Dún Laoghaire.

Can the current buildings be preserved?

This project has been under consideration for a number of years. When investigative works were carried out at the site, it was discovered that the buildings were in a dilapidated condition. Due to the poor state of repair, it is necessary to demolish the buildings and rebuild. They are not salvageable in their current state. The main building, referred to as the Baths Pavilion, will be retained, while the newer outbuildings to the rear of the original main building will need to be demolished. The development of Dún Laoghaire Baths represents a significant, long term investment in this public facility and in the town of Dún Laoghaire

What date will the new baths open?

It is anticipated that the baths will be completed by Spring 2020.

Why are there more Artists spaces?

There is currently space in the dlr LexIcon for artists to exhibit their works. However, the Baths will provide workshop space for artists rather than exhibition space.

Will the Baths building be fully accessible?

The baths pavilion will be fully accessible to all. New public toilets at street level will also be fully accessible

Will the parking be reduced at Newtownsmith during construction?

Yes, there will be approximately 35 parking spaces unavailable for the duration of the works. We apologise for the inconvenience to all regular visitors who access this car park. These spaces will be fully reinstated once the works have been completed.
The works will take approximately 22 months to complete. In order to service these works, provide space for equipment, etc, the contractor will need to apportion space in Newtownsmith for a compound.

Will you be providing parking elsewhere for the duration of the refurbishment?

Unfortunately not. There will still be parking available at Newtownsmith for the duration of the works. The area at Newtownsmith is also halfway between two dart stations and we would encourage people to take public transport, walk or cycle if they want to avail of the amenities that the area of Newtownsmith has to offer.

Will there be traffic restrictions during the works?

During the main works it is not expected that daily traffic management restrictions will be required and no road closures are currently planned. If a road closure is required during the works this will be advertised using the normal procedures (website and social media) well in advance of any proposed closure.

What will happen to the Casement Statue?

The Casement statue will be sited at the end of the new pier which is being built to permit swimmers to enter deep water clear of the rocks at low tide. The new pier will extend approximately 15m beyond the end of an existing concrete feature and the Casement statue will sit at the end of that pier.

Will kayaks, canoes, etc, be a danger to swimmers?

No, there will be no conflict between swimmers and boaters

What consultation has there been about this project?

A public consultation process for this project was previously undertaken when we made an application for consent under the Foreshore Act to the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government in 2012.
Drawings and reports describing the proposal were made available for inspection at County Hall, Dún Laoghaire, at the Council’s offices in Dundrum and at Dún Laoghaire Garda Station, and the public was invited to make submissions on this scheme.
On foot of this, we underwent a Part 8 consultation process for a period of two months in 2015 where the public were invited to make submissions on the scheme.

Will the Baths be free to access for the public?

Yes, anyone can use the baths. The project is public owned and public led. There will be a café and terrace where members of the public can enjoy a coffee or tea looking over the Bay

Will I have to be part of a swimming club to access the baths?

No, anyone can use the baths for access to the sea. The project is public owned and public-led and open for all to use.

Who designed the development?

The new Dún Laoghaire Baths was designed in-house by dlr’s Architects’ Department.

Will you be retaining some of the features of the baths?

The ‘Baths’ entrance mat is being retained. There are a number of items of significance that are being removed and stored such as part of the old slide, pumps and a turnstile for example.

What should a tenant do if they miss a rent payment to HAP?

If for whatever reason, when HAP apply to your bank account for payment and you have insufficient funds in your account to meet the payment.
Don't panic! HAP will retry in three days to collect the monies from your account. (Do not use your payment card in the Post Office to pay until after HAP try a second time to collect the money from your account)
(Should you use your payments card before the second attempt for payment from your bank account, you may double pay for that week.
To avoid disappointment, please ensure you have sufficient funds in your account to meet your payment.

Can I build an extension to the side of my house?

No. Not an exempted development. However an existing garage to the side may be converted (see Section 6).

Who will pay the security deposit to the landlord?

The tenant is responsible for paying any security deposit a landlord may require. The local authority will not pay the security deposit for you.
Should you have difficulty in paying the security deposit, you may qualify for an "Exceptional Needs Payment" from The Department of Social Protection at http://www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/Exceptional-Needs-Payments.aspx

What are the rent caps for the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP)?

One Adult in Shared Accommodation
A Couple in Shared Accommodation
One Adult
A Couple
One Adult or Couple with one child
One Adult or Couple with two children
One Adult or Couple with three children
DLR HAP rent Limits
€430
€500
€660
€900
€1,250
€1,275
€1,300
The above are the contribution amounts Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council will pay to the landlord on your behalf. Should the rent your landlord requires exceed these figures, you can add the difference yourself to meet the monthly rent. Please note this is subject to the monthly difference you pay to the landlord added to the monthly rent contribution you pay to Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council being less than 30% of your households total monthly net income. Payments in excess of 30% of the households net monthly income will be deemed by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to be unaffordable to the household.
Should your current circumstances not equate to any of the above, please call us to discuss your situation on 01-2054399

Will HAP tenants be able to access other housing supports?

Yes.
HAP reciepients have access to other social housing supports offered by local authorities, such as local authority housing.

Why does my property need to be inspected by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Residential rental properties must provide safe, efficient, durable, comfortable and environmentally sustainable homes for those who live in them. They must also be solid, stable and secure investments for those who own them.
The high levels of demand for a limited supply of rented accommodation, which is driving high rates of rent price inflation in some parts of the country, also constitutes a threat to the quality of rented accommodation as tenants may feel obliged to accept substandard dwellings, due to the lack of affordable alternatives. In this context, the role of Housing Authorities have a critical public role and duty in ensuring compliance with the standards for rental accommodation through effective inspections.

All requests for personal details must be made in writing, either by post or email. The Council shall respond to your request within one month. You may be asked for evidence of your identity. This is to make sure that personal information is not given to the wrong person. Please address your request to:Data Protection Co-OrdinatorDún Laoghaire-Rathdown County CouncilMarine RoadDún LaoghaireCounty DublinEmail: dataprotection@dlrcoco.iePhone: +353 01 2054827In your request, you should give any details that will help the Council to identify you and find your data e.g. any previous address and/or date of birth. Also, be clear about which details you are looking for if you are only looking for certain information. You will receive these details within one month of your request however if the request is complex, and the Council is of the opinion that it requires additional time to consider the request, it may once only extend the time, by notice in writing to you, by a further period not exceeding two months.
General Data Protection Regulation Data Access Request - Print Only Version

Is there a fee involved?

In general No.However section 93(4) of the Data Protection Act 2018 provides if a request is manifestly unfounded or excessive in nature, a reasonable charge may be imposed having regard to the administrative cost of complying with the request.

What size of property can I rent on the HAP Scheme?

The property size in which HAP will pay rent to your landlord (on your behalf) depends soley on your current housing need.
Example:
If your current housing need is for a one bedroom property. HAP will only pay rent to your landlord if the property you have found is a one bedroom property.
HAP will not pay rent to a landlord of a three bedroom property on your behalf if your current housing need is for a one bedroom property
If you are unsure about your current housing need, you can contact our Allocations Department on 01 2054828

What are the main changes?

The main changes are as follows:
A new allocations scheme replaces the Scheme of Letting Priorities. This is available on our website. Housing Allocations Scheme 2011 (pdf -68kb) pdf 123kb
To be eligible for Social Housing Support in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council area you must either live in the County Council area or have a connection to the area.
You may apply to one Local Authority only. Please see point 6 below in relation to your choice of areas.
You must have a legal right to remain in the State on a long term basis.
You must not own alternative accommodation which could be occupied or sold and the proceeds used to secure other suitable accommodation.
Your net income must be below the thresholds below;
SingleAdult
Two AdultsNo Children
One AdultOne Child
One AdultTwo Children
One AdultThree Children
Two AdultsOne Child
Two AdultsTwo Children
Two AdultsFour or more Children
Three AdultsFour or more Children
€35,000
€36,750
€35,875
€36,750
€37,625
€37,625
€38,500
€40,250
€42,000

I have an air lock, how do I get rid of it?

For information on how to fix an air lock, please click on the following link, Air Locks(pdf -56kb)

How do I read my water meter?

Information on Reading your Water Meter (pdf -404kb) PDF 404 KB

How do residents go about requesting Paid Parking in their areas?

Guidelines for the Implementation of Paid Parking Control Schemes are contained in the Parking Control Bye-Laws, 2007. For an area to be considered for Paid parking control a signed petition by a number of residents should be submitted by the Residents Association, or individually on behalf of a group of residents, to the Parking Section of the Municipal Services Department. The request will be assessed by the Municipal Services Department. A traffic / parking survey will be carried out to assess the nature and extent of the parking problem in the area, whether the implementation of Paid parking control is considered appropriate, the suitability of the area and the capacity to accommodate a Paid parking control scheme. In primarily residential areas, if it is considered that Paid Parking is warranted, a survey and accompanying drawing will be circulated to eligible residents to obtain the residents preference in relation to the proposed introduction of Paid Parking. A report on the proposed introduction of a parking scheme will then be brought to the Area Committee in which the proposed Scheme is located for approval. If the Scheme is approved by the Area Committee it will then go to the full Council for final approval to introduce the Scheme.
For more information, contact the Parking Section on (01) 2054884.Email: parkingcontrol@dlrcoco.ie

How do I find out what the Paid parking restrictions are?

When parking please refer to the information plates on the street, which will indicate the period during which it is permitted to park and any parking restrictions i.e. ‘Permits not Valid’.

How much will Paid Parking cost?

The cost applicable is indicated on the Paid Parking machine and information plates.

What are the hours of operation of Paid Parking?

The hours of operation of Paid Parking would normally be 08.00 – 19.00 Monday to Friday or Monday to Saturday.

Is there a maximum parking period for motorists using Paid Parking?

The parking period permitted is indicated on the appropriate parking ticket machine and information plates.
A vehicle which had been parked in a ticket parking place for the maximum period permitted in that ticket parking place, as indicated on the appropriate Paid Parking ticket parking machine or information plate, shall not be parked again in a ticket parking place on the public road in which that ticket parking place is situated until at least one hour has elapsed since the vehicle was last parked in that ticket parking place.

How many vacant sites are registered with dlrcoco?

There are currently 12 sites registered as vacant with dlrcoco. Please see the the full list here.

How do I pay my rent?

It is possible to pay your rent through the Household Budget deduction scheme for those on Social Welfare payments. Deductions may not exceed 25% of income (contact Housing Rents on 01 2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie for further details)
By using a DLR payment card, which is accepted in all Post Offices and shops which display the PostPoint sign, or online at http://www.mybills.ie/. Please note that when paying online you must enter the 6 digit number on your rent card when asked for a reference.
By using a standing order through your bank. Standing order letters are available from Housing Rents by contacting 01 2054841
By cheque, postal order or bank draft

What do I do if I lose my payment card?

Please contact the Housing Rents section on 01 2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie and we can post out a replacement card
You can also call in person at the housing counter (County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire), Monday – Friday 10am until 4pm and a replacement card can be issued.
We also have an office in Dundrum, Rear Bank of Ireland, Main Street, Dundrum, Dublin 14.
The opening hours are 9.30am - 4.30pm

How long before I know if the Council is interested in leasing my property?

Within one week. The property will be inspected and if deemed suitable for leasing by our inspection the Council will then enter into negotiations with you in respect of rental terms.

Should the tenant engage in Anti Social Behaviour (ABS) or cause a nuisance. What action is open to me?

The Council will have the responsibility for dealing with anti-social behaviour.

Will the Council purchase the property from me?

In some instances the property owner may agree with the Local Authority to include an "option to purchase‟ and/or a “right of first refusal” as a condition of the lease. These clauses give the Local Authority the option to buy the property at intervals during or at the end of the lease or oblige the owner to first offer the property to the Council should he/she decide to sell. Both parties must be in agreement to include this condition and the specific terms must be negotiated.

Can I withdraw from the contract during the lease term if I want to sell the property?

No. Under the long term leasing arrangement the property can be sold by the property owner during the term but only on the condition that the lease agreement is transferred to the new owner and the Local Authority is notified in advance and is in agreement.

What is the Representational Payment for a Councillor

The Representational Payment is currently:- €17,060.00

How do I pay my Rates?

You can pay your rates by the following methods:
By Direct DebitYou can pay your rates in monthly instalments over the course of one year by completing our Direct Debit Mandate Form.
By Bank Giro Credit Transfer/EFT
A Bank Giro is attached to your Rate Demand.
Credit/Debit Card
Telephone 01 2054821 or 01 2054339 (maximum amount €5,000).
In personAt the Council’s Offices in Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum using a Credit or Debit card. Maximum amount is €5,000.
Instalment
If you are experiencing difficulty in paying your bill in full please contact us at 01 2054339 or by e-mail at dlrcoco.ie
Please note that Cash is not accepted at the Council's offices nor should it be sent through the post.

Can I make a lump sum payment?

Yes, you can make a lump sum payment off your mortgage. You should send your request in writing together with your payment to the Housing Revenue Loans Section.

What does Mortgage Protection Insurance cover?

Mortgage Protection Insurance covers the borrower in the case of incapacity up to age 65 and in the case of death up to age 75. It does not cover redundancy or unemployment. If you need further information please contact 01 2054836 .

Who can I contact if I am concerned about arrears?

Please contact Housing Loans Section, on 01 2054836.

How can I make an appointment to talk to someone about my arrears?

You can talk to our dedicated Arrears Support Office by phone 01 2054836 or email housing@dlrcoco.ie or you can contact any member of the Housing Loans Section.

What is MARP?

The Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process (MARP) was introduced to Local Authorities in October 2012 to help borrowers who are In arrears.

Will my case be treated confidentially?

Yes. Every borrower’s case is treated confidentially.

Do I have to sign my property over to the Local Authority when I take in a tenant in receipt of the HAP scheme

No. Your property will remain your property and will not be signed over to the Local Authority when you take in a tenant in receipt of the HAP scheme. The agreement between the landlord, tenant and the property will not differ from how the private rental market currently operates.

What proof of ownership do landlords need to supply?

In order for a HAP payment to be paid into a landlords bank account. HAP need to ensure the landlord receiving the payment is in fact the owner of the property being rented.
There are a number of ways to prove ownership of a property. Listed below are the documents we are allowed to accept as proof of ownership any one of the following.
Title deed or similar legal instrument proving ownership of the property
Current registration letter from the RTB showing the landlords name and the property address. If the house is sub-divided into self-contained flats, each individual flat will need to be registered with the RTB
Insurance policy/schedule for the property. (Must be current and in date. We can not accept renewal notices)
Mortgage Statement dated within the last 12 months indicating landlord as the owner of the property and indicating the property being rented is in fact the same property on the mortgage statement.
Local Property Tax (LPT) statement showing payment, If the house is sub-divided into self-contained flats, LPT must be paid for each individual flat.
Landlords need only provide one of the documents listed above as proof of ownership.
From our experience we have found landlords tend to find the RTB letter or insurance schedule as the easiest to attain

How do I apply for a rent review on my property?

You apply using the RPZ calculator on WWW.RTB.IE You then post or email the resulting calculations to the RAS section. A 90 day notice must be given before the new rent takes effect

How many households are on our social housing waiting list?

The number of households who were on our social housing list at the end of each year were as follows:
2018 - 4524
2017 - 4,749
2016 - 4,991
2015 - 5,687
2014 - 5,207

Do you accept Seasonal Vendors?

Yes. Seasonal applications are for 3 months and applicants can only trade once in 12 month period. Seasonal applications are only for produce or products that have a seasonal growing or/and seasonal selling periods, such as fresh fruits and berries in the summer months and Christmas themed products in the winter.
If you are a seasonal vendor please specify which season you are applying for.

What is the Marlay Park Changing Places Facility?

This facility is an enhanced accessible toilet that has many features and additional equipment that make them even more accessible than the standard accessible toilets. It has 12m² of floor space, and include both a full room coverage ceiling track hoist, a centrally located toilet bowl with space either side for transfers or assistants, and a height-adjustable adult sized changing bench.
The facility has been designed to enhance the health, safety, comfort and dignity of someone who may need extra support and additional equipment during personal care tasks.

Where is the Location of the Marlay Park Changing Places Facility?

The facility is through the archway in the Marlay Park Courtyard

What type of work is covered by the Grant?

The works covered include grab rails, access ramps, level access showers, stair-lifts, and other minor works deemed reasonably necessary to make a house more suitable for a person with mobility problems to live in.

Am I eligible for a Mobility Aid Housing Grant?

The grant is means tested and the level of grant is determined by taking account of the annual gross income of the registered property owner together with all household members over 18 (or 23 if in full time education) in the previous tax year. In order to qualify for a grant under this scheme the gross household income must not exceed €30,000 (some applicants may qualify for certain income disregards).

What is the maximum Grant available?

The maximum grant available is €6,000 or 100% of the approved nett cost of proposed works. The applicant may qualify for a refund of the VAT from the Revenue Commissioners subject to certain conditions once they have paid the contractor in full.

Are there financial supports available to ratepayers in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

The Council are operating two business support schemes for eligible ratepayers.
The Business Support Scheme 2018 - 4% to 10% of Rates Bill for Eligible Ratepayers provides for the payment of a grant to eligible businesses up to10% of their 2017 rates bill subject to a maximum of €800.This grant will benefit businesses located in the County whose rates account was assessed at €10,000 or less for 2017. It will not be necessary for eligible businesses to apply for the support scheme payment.
The 2018 budget also makes provision for the Rates Vacant Property Assistance Scheme 2019 for ratepayers whose rate account was assessed at €10,000 or less for 2018. It provides for a relief equivalent to 8% of the rates bill assessed on eligible properties.
For 2015 and 2016 the refund available is limited to 75% of the rates.
For 2017 and 2018 the refund is a maximum of 50% of the rates assessed for the year.
In addition to this, the Local Enterprise Office promotes a range of financial supports to qualifying businesses based in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County. These include;
The Occupation of Vacant Commercial Premises Scheme which was established to encourage new businesses to occupy commercial premises, that have been vacant for a period exceeding 6 months. The Scheme is applicable to subject premises which have a rates valuation of no more than €60,000.
The Shop Front Improvement Scheme which is an initiative to improve the overall appearance of shop fronts and commercial properties that front onto public streets within Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. Business owners of existing independent shops in the County are eligible to apply for assistance. The Council will cover up to 50% of the shop front cost with a maximum allowable grant of €3,000 per applicant.
Details of these and other financial supports are available at https://www.localenterprise.ie/DLR/Financial-Supports/

How do I gain access to the Marlay Park Changing Places Facility

There is a universal key available that works for Changing Places facilities and other accessible WCs or you can access a key at Brambles (Boland’s) Coffee Shop. Opening hours: 9am - 5.30pm.
The Universal Key supplier is Williams Locksmith, 8 Whitefriars, Aungier Street, Dublin 2

What type of information can I request access to?

You can request access to personal information held by Dún-Laoghaire Rathdown County Council about you regardless of when the information was created.
You can also gain access to other non-personal records created after 21st October 1998.
Some records are not immediately available under the FOI Act. Access may be restricted by certain exemptions or involve specific procedures and time limits.

Do I need to pay a fee when making a request under the FOI Act?

Whilst there is no fee for the initial FOI request, the Council may apply search, retrieval and copying fees, subject to thresholds set out in the Act. Please see the attached document entitled 'Freedom of Information Fees' for more info.
Other Charges
In line with Section 27 of the Act, charges may be applied for the time spent finding records and for any photocopying costs incurred in providing the material requested. Fees will not be charged in respect of personal records, except where a large number of records are involved. Fees for search, retrieval and copying of records are set in accordance with Statutory Instruments No 484 of 2014 as follows:
€ 20 per hour of search retrieval€ 0.04 per sheet for a photocopy€ 10 for a CD Rom
Fees and charges paid by money order or cheque should be made payable to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
Reductions and Waivers
A fee in respect of search, retrieval and copying of records will be waived where the cost does not exceed €100.

Does my request have to be in writing?

Requests must be made in writing and delivered by hand, post, email or fax. All requests should be addressed to:
Leonora EarlsFreedom of Information OfficerCorporate, Communications and Governance DepartmentDún Laoghaire-Rathdown County CouncilMarine RoadDún LaoghaireCo. Dublin
DDI: 01 2047014Fax: 01 2806969
Email: foi@dlrcoco.ie
You must state that you are requesting the information under the Freedom of Information Acts.
Requests should contain sufficient information to enable us identify the records in question. They should also specify the format in which access to records is sought, for example photocopy of records, viewing of file, email etc.
If you choose to use our FOI Application Form please find it attached under the Related Documents heading above

What areas can HAP tenants be HAP'd into from Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Should you find a private rental property in the jurisdiction of any other Local Authority in Ireland, you can receive a HAP payment for that property through Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. This will only apply should your total annual net income not exceed the income limit set out in that jurisdiction.
If you are unsure what the income limits in any Local Authority are, you can contact that Local Authority directly for clarification.

Search Results

What is a Regularisation Certificate?

A certificate granted by a building control authority in respect of works on non-domestic buildings and apartments blocks which were commenced or completed without the necessary Fire Safety Certificate (FSC). The certificate may be granted with or without conditions or refused.

What is the purpose of Community Grants?

The purpose of Community Grants is to provide financial support to community groups who are engaged in community initiatives, projects, events and activities in the administrative area of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. The grants support the delivery of the Council’s commitment to improve the quality of life for all its citizens.

Who can apply for a community grant?

Local community and voluntary groups may apply for a community grant to assist with the delivery of a community initiative, project, event or activity. The group must be properly constituted and the application must demonstrate a benefit to the local community. The group must also be registered with the Public Participation Network.

Can a group apply for the full cost of a project/event/activity/initiative?

No, a grant will only cover a percentage of a project and the group must demonstrate the financial capacity to match the funding.

Can the grant be drawn down on receipt of grant approval?

Yes, but the application to draw down the grant must be accompanied by the appropriate support documentation.

Can a group apply for more than 1 grant?

Yes, a group can apply for several grants under different categories provided each application relates to a different project/event/activity/initiative.

Can a group apply under two categories for the same project/event/activity/initiative to maximise the funding granted?

No, funding will only be awarded to proposals not already covered under another grant category.

Can a group apply for a grant under a number of categories on one application?

No, a separate application must be submitted for each grant category.

Is every group required to register with the PPN to qualify for a grant?

Groups working in the areas of Community, Sports, Arts, Residents Associations, groups working with people experiencing disadvantage/inequality and groups with a focus on protecting the environment and sustainability must register with the PPN in order to qualify for funding. Application forms for registering can be found on www.dlrcoco.ie/ppn . Other conditions apply to individual grant categories, e.g. an application under the category of Age Friendly Support must address specific needs of older people and demonstrate how it supports the delivery of the DLR Age Friendly Strategy.

What is a Community Facilities Grant?

This category covers two grant types:-
A Feasibility Grant is intended to give assistance to local community and voluntary groups to complete a feasibility study regarding the development of a community facility.
The Upgrading Community Facilities Grant allows for the refurbishment and/or redecoration of a facility which is used by the community.

What is an Equipment Grant intended for?

An equipment grant is intended for the purchase or replacement of agreed relevant equipment. It includes the purchase of major and minor equipment.
A Major Equipment Grant provides for the purchase of large items of equipment up to a maximum value of €4,000.
A Minor Equipment Grant provides for the purchase of smaller items of equipment up to a maximum value of €1,000.

Can a group apply for an Equipment Grant each year?

A Major Equipment Grant can only be applied for once every three years while a Minor Equipment Grant can be applied for every year.

Does the Equipment Grant allow for the purchase of laptops/tablets/smart phones?

No, the Equipment Grant applies only to the cost of desktop personal computers which remain office based.

What is a Community Activity Grant?

A Community Activity Grant is intended to assist community and voluntary groups to promote local community activities. Examples include a community day, community week or a small event during the year.

Who can apply for a Summer Project Grant?

Community groups can apply for this grant to assist with the provision of supervised recreational and educational activities for young people during the summer period. Summer projects must cater for the local community and must run for a period one, two or three weeks over the summer holiday.

What is a Community Development Grant?

This category includes grants to assist with:-
Start Up Costs for community and voluntary groups, including insurance costs, purchase of small items of equipment and rental costs in the first year only.
Training Support for groups involved in community development who require training related to community development, governance, committee skills etc. The training must be for a group of volunteers and not one person only.
Community Development Initiatives for projects which assist with the long term development of a group or area and which specifically address equality initiatives, anti-racism, social inclusion, research and implementation of information and communication technology.
Running Costs related to on-going running costs including insurance and facility hire for groups in existence for a period of at least 2 years prior to application.

Who can apply for an Age Friendly Support Grant?

The Age Friendly Support Grant is available to groups and organisations who wish to deliver specific supports and initiatives to enhance the quality of life of older people living and visiting the area of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

Is priority given to certain applications in the Age Friendly Support category?

Priority will be given to initiatives which support the achievement of the Age Friendly Strategy with goals relating to enhancing the quality of life for older people as well as initiatives improving accessibility to the built environment or initiatives to reduce isolation or loneliness.

What about Child Protection?

Projects are responsible for ensuring that they meet all the requirements of child protection and Garda vetting legislation in Ireland, including the Children First Act 2015. Successful applicants must have policies and procedures in place prior to drawing down funds in accordance with national policy, namely, Children First: National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children.

What is an IAD?

An IAD is an identified area of disadvantage in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County.

Do I have to acknowledge Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Yes, all successful applicants are required to acknowledge the financial assistance of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council and include the Council’s logo on all printed matter.

Why was my application refused?

An application can be refused on a number of grounds. The most common reasons are:
The group did not demonstrate ability to match fund the project
The group is not constituted and is not a voluntary community group
DLR County Council does not fund the item i.e. laptops are not funded and items considered a risk to the personal safety of groups are not funded.
The application is vague and does not have enough information to allow the grant to be approved.
Business organisations not eligible for funding
The group applied for the same funding under another grant application within the Dun Laoghaire County Council.

How can I improve my application?

Applications should be typed clearly and concisely
Applicants should use the checklist to ensure they submit all required documentation
Applicants must meet the required deadline
Applicants should ensure that they apply under the correct and most appropriate section
Applicants should contact a community worker or area community officer to discuss their application or attend an information evening.

Is the Calendar updated if changes are required to the date, time or venue of any meeting?

The calendar is updated and re-published on the website where changes are required to the time, date or venue of any meeting.

How can I find out how much is left on my loan?

You can ring any member of the Housing Revenue Loans section on 01 2054836.

How can I find out how much my monthly payment is?

You can ring any member of the Housing Revenue Loans section on 01 2054836.

How can I find out if my monthly payments are up-to-date?

An annual statement is issued every year or you can get a statement showing these details by ringing the Loan Accounts section at 01 2054836.

How do I check the balance on my rent account?

A balance can be given over the phone or via email to the tenant of the property only. Please phone 01 2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie
Please note that we can only discuss tenancy matters with the named tenant of the property, unless an agreement is in place for a third party to act/speak on the tenant’s behalf
A statement is issued to tenants every three months. Tenants can check their receipts/payments against this statement. Copies of rent statements can be issued on request.

What is the membership of the Economic Development and Enterprise SPC?

There are six categories of information available as follows:
the state of the elements of the environment e.g. air, water, soil, land, landscape, biological diversity
factors affecting, or likely to affect, the elements of the environment, e.g. energy, noise, radiation, waste and other releases into the environment
measures designed to protect the elements of the environment e.g. policies, legislation, plans, programs, environmental agreements
reports on the implementation of environmental legislation
analyses and assumptions used within the framework of measures designed to protect the environment
the state of human health and safety, the food chain, cultural sights and built structures in as much as they may be affected by the elements of the environment.
Under the mandate of legislation, we must refuse to give you access to environmental information on the following grounds:
personal information
information supplied by a third party voluntarily
material the disclosure of which would make it more likely that the environment to which such material related would be damaged
confidentiality of the proceedings of public authorities.
Under the AIE Regulations we may refuse to give you access to information on certain grounds:
international relations, national defence or public security
the course of justice
commercial or industrial confidentiality
intellectual property rights
material in the course of completion
internal communications with public authorities
the request is considered to be unreasonable due to the volume or range of information sought or the request is too general.

How do I request information under the AIE Regulations?

When making a request for information under the AIE Regulations, you must:
submit your request in writing or electronic form and state that it is being made under the AIE Regulations
provide your contact details
state as clearly as possible the environmental information required
if you require the information in a specific format or manner of access, you should specify this in your request.
We are obliged to reply within one month of receipt of your application.
Please submit your application to:
Conor PeoplesFreedom of Information OfficerCorporate, Communications & Governance DepartmentDún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council
County Hall
Marine Road
Dún LaoghaireCo. Dublin
Tel: 01 2047053
Fax: 01 2806969
Email: foi@dlrcoco.ie
Office tel: 01 2047053
Office email: foi@dlrcoco.ie
The AIE Regulations allow people access to environmental information held by or for public authorities which is not routinely available through other means.
The Freedom of Information Acts 1997 and 2003 operate in parallel with the AIE Regulations. This means that people can gain access to environmental information under the FOI Acts and the AIE Regulations
If you wish to access personal information held by the Council under the Data Protection legislation, please see the Data Protection Section

Residents can apply for parking permits and visitors permits. For non-residents payment will be on a Pay & Display basis.

Who is eligible to apply for a Residents Parking Permit?

The Parking Control Bye-Laws, 2007 define a resident “a person who is the occupant of a dwelling or a converted house, other than a purpose built apartment block, who satisfies the Council that his/her normal dwelling place is at premises situated within a pay parking area which relates to the parking permit”.
Dwelling is defined as “a building or structure designed and used for residential purposes, other than an apartment within a purpose built apartment block”.
Residents of purpose built apartment blocks are not eligible for resident’s permits.
Businesses, employees and non-resident landlords are not eligible for residents permits.
The display of a valid parking permit, as specified in the Parking Control Bye-Laws, is the responsibility of the applicant.

How many Residents Parking Permits can be purchased per residence?

In any one year, the Council shall, on application by a resident, issue one parking permit per resident’s car within its own pay parking area, subject to production of acceptable evidence by the resident up to an upper limit of four residents parking permits per dwelling.
Where a building comprises a converted house the total number of residents’ parking permits that may be held concurrently by residents of housing units in that building shall be four subject to the limit of one residents’ parking permit per housing unit and subject to production of acceptable evidence.

How much does a Parking Permit cost?

Residential Parking Permit:
Fee: €40 per one year permit or €75 per two year permit.
Visitors Parking Permits:
Visitor permits are sold at a cost of €2.00 each in multiples of 4.
The minimum order is 4 Permits at a cost of €8.00.

Is a Residents Parking Permit interchangeable between vehicles?

A resident’s parking permit is only valid for the vehicle and the parking area indicated on the permit. Maps showing the parking areas in which the Parking Control Bye-Laws are in operation are available for inspection at County Hall, Dún Laoghaire and in the Council Offices in Dundrum. The Parking Control Bye-Laws, 2007 may be viewed on the Council’s website.

I have changed my car, how do I change my permit?

A Change of Vehicle form must be completed. The completed form must be accompanied by:
- a copy of the insurance certificate for the vehicle which must display the address to which the permit is being applied for.
If the car is registered in the name of a company you must supply a copy of the current insurance certificate for the vehicle, AND a letter from the company stating that you are employed by them and that you have habitual use of the vehicle,
AND
- the old parking permit. If the old parking permit is not returned with the application, an ‘Application for Replacement Parking Permit’ form must be completed.

Why should residents pay to park on their own street?

The scheme is being introduced primarily for the benefit of residents, to ease parking pressures in their area. The implementation of the scheme involves substantial costs to the Council, including road lining, signage, the provision of parking meters, and continued maintenance and enforcement costs. The present fee for a parking permit is €40 for an annual permit or €75 for a two-year permit.

Is it possible to provide residents only parking?

There is no statutory basis for providing residents only parking on public roads.

What provision is being made for people with disabilities?

Motorists who display a ‘Parking Card for People with Disabilities’ (EU Blue Card), issued by the Irish Wheelchair Association or legitimate national authority, may park in controlled areas without payment.

Will I be guaranteed a space outside my house?

Residents permits will allow residents to park in a designated area, but will not guarantee availability of spaces.

How will visitors or tradesmen park?

Visitors permits, valid for parking in a Pay & Display bay, will be available to residents at a cost of €2.00 each. Each permit will be valid for 1 day. Also, short stay parking may be paid for by Pay & Display ticket.

Can residents park in areas designated for long stay/short stay parking?

Residents can park in the majority of long stay/short stay bays, once a valid residents permit is displayed, however residents may not be allowed to park in some commercial areas. Commercial areas/bays will have a time plate stating ‘Permits Not Valid’, residents may not use their permits while parking in these areas.
More on Applying for Residents and Visitors Permits

How do I report an instance of illegal parking?

To report an instance of illegal parking you may contact the Council’s Parking Section on P: 2054884 or email parkingcontrol@dlrcoco.ie

What is the membership of the Community Development, Culture and Ageing SPC?

Is there a duty on owners to notify the Local Authority of a change in occupation of rateable property?

From the 1st of July 2014 under Section 32 of the Local Government Reform Act 2014, owners of rateable property are required to notify the relevant local authority when there is a change in the occupation of their property i.e. where a property is being sold or there is a change in occupier including where a property becomes vacant. Fa by the ratepayer for the relevant period of their ownership subject to Owners must complete a Section 32 Form within 14 days of the change taking place. Owners who do not notify the local authority within 14 days will incur a financial penalty. This penalty is an amount equivalent to up to two years of outstanding rates from the previous occupier. Any penalty due and outstanding by an owner of relevant property due to non-notification will remain a charge on the property.
All ratepayers are reminded that they are legally required to pay all commercial rates due from them prior to their departure from a property or prior to the sale or transfer of an interest in a property. Any rates due and outstanding by an owner of relevant property will remain a charge on the property.

If a tenant moves into a premises and there are rates due on it, can the tenant be held liable?

It is up to the new occupier to ensure that all rates, including the current year’s rates and all other liabilities are paid before the closing of a sale or the assignment of a lease of any rateable property.

What happens if I request a revision of rateable valuation?

A Valuer (called a Revision officer) from the Valuation Office will call to assess your property. Where possible the Revision Officer will make contact prior to the inspection to arrange an appointment. Once the property is inspected, the Revision Officer will send you a draft certificate containing the proposed valuation and other details of your property.
If you are unhappy with the valuation or other details on this draft certificate you may make representations to the Revision Officer within 28 day of the issuing of the draft certificate, see http://www.valoff.ie/en/

I have an agreement with the Council to pay my waste charge arrears. What happens now?

Please continue to pay your arrears as normal.

What happens if I have waste charge arrears with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council?

If your account is in arrears and you do not already have an agreement with the Council, please contact any member of the Waste Charges team at telephone (01) 205 4747 or e-mail charges@dlrcoco.ie to clear arrears or to set up a formal agreement to pay the arrears by instalment.

I have unused bag labels, what do I do with them?

Return them to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (Waste Charges, Finance and Risk Management Department), County Hall, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin for a refund

Can I build an extension to my home without having to seek planning permission?

Broadly speaking, the construction of an extension or conservatory does not require planning permission when it is to the rear of the house; however, any query from the public of this nature should be dealt with subject to the provisions of Part 1 of the 2nd Schedule to the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001.
The following should be seen only as general guidelines;
Terraced and Semi-Detached Houses: If the house has not been previously extended, the floor area of the proposed extension cannot exceed 40 sq metres. This exemption also allows for extensions above ground-floor level (if the house is semi-detached or terraced, the area of the above ground extension cannot exceed 12 sq. m). This means, for a typical semi-detached house, one could have a ground floor extension of 28sq. m & 2nd floor extension of 12sq m without applying for planning permission. Any above ground floor extension shall be a distance of not less than 2 metres from any party boundary.
Detached Houses: As with terraced and Semi-detached above, the overall area of extension must be less than 40 sq. metres. This exemption also allows for extensions above ground floor level, the are above ground floor are cannot exceed 20 sq. m. One could therefore have a ground floor extension of 20 sq. m., and a 2nd floor of 20 sq. m. Any above ground floor extension shall be a distance of not less than 2 metres from any party boundary..
Both Cases: If the proposed extension is in addition to an existing extension (post 01-10-1964), overall areas of all extensions must not be more than 40 sq. m. - including extensions which needed permission, e.g. to side of house.

Can I cover my entire back garden with an extension of 40sqm?

No.The extension shall not reduce the "Private Open Space" of the back garden to less than 25 sq. m. Hard surface areas to the rear of a house are exempted development, providing they are used for a purpose incidental to the enjoyment of the house and not used for the parking of cars.
N.B. Existing or proposed garden shed/s are not reckoned as private open space.

Can I build a window to the side of my extension?

Yes, providing the following guidelines are applied;
Terraced and Semi-Detached Houses: Windows at ground floor level shall not be less than 1 metre from the boundary they face. Windows at above ground floor level shall not be less than 11m from the boundary they face. The above applies to terraced s/d dwellings.
Detached Houses: Where the dwelling is detached and the floor area of above ground floor extension is greater than 12sqm windows shall not be less than 11m from the boundary they face.

If I build an attic conversion do I need permission?

Normally no. However, if work involves dormer windows, permission is needed. If velux windows proposed to the rear, it is exempt. If velux windows proposed to the side/front elevation it is not exempt.

Is the area of an attic conversion reckonable in assessing the 40sqm exemption limit for domestic extensions?

No.

Can I convert my garage to living accommodation without permission?

Yes. Subject to the provisions of Part 1 of the 2nd Schedule to the Planning & Development Regulations 2001 N.B. Garage must be attached to the dwelling.
(Page 156 - 157).

Yes provided that:
It is not forward of the front wall of the house;
Not greater than 25sqm (or no. of sheds aggregated);
25sqm of garden space is left. N.B. extensions attached to house are not reckoned as private open space;
Shed finish is in keeping with the house;
Shed height: max 4m pitched roof; 3m flat roof;
It is not lived in or used for keeping of animals (pigs, ponies, horses, pigeons).
(see page 156 - 157, Class 3)

Can I build a porch without permission?

Yes, provided that:
Not less than 2 metres from roadway;
Not more than 2sqm Height: 3m max for a Flat Roof, 4m max Pitched Roof.
(see page 158, Class 7)

Can I build an extension to the front of my house without permission?

No. This is not exempted development (except the porch - for exemptions see page 158, Class 7 and Section 9).

Can I install a chimney, boiler house or oil tank for central heating without permission?

Yes. The height of the antenna shall be no more than 6m above the roof.
Note: These notes are for guidance only. The relevant Planning Regulations should always be consulted where doubt exists.

Can I erect a Satellite Dish without permission?

Yes provided that:
Only 1 per house.
Max. Diameter 1 metre.
Not to be erected on, or forward to the front wall of the house.
Not to be erected on the front roof slope or higher than the highest part of the roof.
(see page 157, Class 4, 1 - 4).

Can I build walls around my house without planning permission?

Yes, subject to:
Not more than 2m high to the rear.
Not more than 1.2 metres to the front or forward of the front of the house.
(Page 157, Class 5).
NB: Metal palisade or other security fencing is not exempt.

Yes. To the front or side for not more than 2 cars.
(Page 157, Class 6, Part B(ii))
NB. The widening of vehicular entrances is not exempt. (3.5 meters max with permission)

Can I convert 2 or more dwelling to use as a single dwelling without permission?

Yes. But only if the structure was previously used as a single dwelling. e.g. a house which was used as a single dwelling when built, later converted to flats can convert back to single dwelling use under this exemption.

Does a For Sale sign on a dwelling need permission?

No, subject to:max area of 0.6sqm in case of a house/letting max area 1.2sqm in case of any other structure/land.Not more than 1 sign. Remove not later than 7 days after sale/letting.

Can I build a pond, path, decking or landscaping works without permission?

Yes. Provided that the ground level not be altered by more than 1 metre above or below the level of adjoining ground. Alteration of ground level to front of house is not permitted other than for landscaping.
(Page 158, Class 6)

Can I build a tennis court without permission?

Strictly speaking, yes, to the rear. However, the provision of lighting and fencing over 2m would not be exempted. The 1 metre raising/lowering of ground levels also applies.
(Page 158, Class 6 & Page 159, Class 11)

Can I paint my house without permission?

Yes, except for a mural and providing the house is not a Protected Structure.
(Page 159, Class 12)

Can I keep a caravan/campervan or boat in my garden without permission?

Yes, subject to:
Not more than 1 caravan / campervan or boat;
No commercial / advertising use;
Not used as a dwelling while stored;
Storage not greater than 9 months in any year.
(Page 158, Class 8)

Can I erect a Wind Turbine, Solar Panel, Heat Pump within the curtilage of my house?

Yes. From 28/02/2007 these are exempted under new Class 2 to exempted regulations, subject to limitations.
The Planning and Development (Amendment) Regulations 2007 give effect to exempted development provisions in respect of renewable energies for dwellings and refer to the installation or erection of a solar panel on or within the curtilage of a house, or on any buildings within the curtilage of a house is exempt subject to compliance with the following conditions and limitations:
Solar Panels:
The total aperture area of any such panel taken together with any such panels previously placed on or within the curtilage of a house shall not exceed 12 sqm or 50% of the total roof area, whichever is the lesser;
1. The distance between the plane of the wall or a pitched roof and the panel shall not exceed 15 cm;
2. The distance between the plan of a flat roof and the panel shall not exceed 50cm;
3. The solar panels shall be a minimum of 50cm from any edge of the wall or roof on which it is to be mounted;
4. The height of a free standing solar array shall not exceed 2 metres at its highest point, above ground level;
5. A free standing solar array shall not be placed on or forward of the front wall of the a house;
6. The erection of any free standing solar array shall not reduce the area of private open space to the rear or side of the house to less than 25 sq m.
Wind Turbines:
The construction, erection or placing within the curtilage of a house of a wind turbine is exempt subject to the following Regulations (Class 2)
1. The turbine shall not be erected on or within the curtilage of a house of a wind attached to the house or any building or other structure within its curtilage.
2. The total height of the turbine shall not exceed 13 metres.
3. The rotor diameter shall not exceed 6 metres.
4. The minimum clearance between the lower tip of the rotor and ground level shall not be less than 3 metres.
5. The supporting tower shall be a distance of not less than the total structure height (including the blade of the turbine at the highest point of its arc) plus one metre from any party boundary.
6. Noise levels must not exceed 43db(A) during normal operation, or in excess of 5db(A) above the background noise, whichever is greater, as measured from the nearest neighbouring inhabited dwelling.
7. No more than one turbine shall be erected within the curtilage of a house.
8. No such structure shall be constructed, erected or placed forward of the front wall of a house.
9. All turbine components shall have a matt, non-reflective finish and the blade shall be made of material that does not deflect telecommunication signals.
10. No sign, advertisement or object, not required for the functioning or safety of the turbine shall be attached to or exhibited on the wind turbine.
FYI - The Planning and Development (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (SI 256 of 2008) give effect to exempted development provisions in respect of renewable energies for industrial buildings, business premises and agricultural holdings.
Please refer to Regulations for further information.

If my property is a Protected Structure, do these exemptions apply?

No. Most works to a Protected Structure are not exempted. A declaration of what is / is not exempted is needed to clarify issues.

Do bus shelters need permission?

Yes, not exempted development.

Can I erect a roadside shrine without permission?

Yes, subject to maximum area of 2sqm, max height is 2m above the centre of the road opposite, and it is not lit.

Is permission needed for a crèche childcare facility?

Yes, unless the number of children, including carers is not more than 6 and caring is in carers own house.

Change of use

(Page 160, Class 14).

Occasional Use

Occasional use for recreational, social purposes of any school, hall, club, art gallery, museum, library, reading room, gym or structures normally used for public worship.
(Page 160 Class 15).

Is permission needed for a telephone kiosk?

No, provided not situated with 10m of the curtilage of any dwelling house save with the consent in writing of the owner/occupier.
(Page 167, Class 31 (c)).

Do Statutory Undertakers need permission for routine works in the provision/maintenance/overall of their facilities (e.g. Local Authorities, ESB, Telecoms, Iarnrod Eireann, Bord Gais, etc.)?

No, not in the normal way, but, is subject to the consultation procedures contained in Part VIII of the 2001 Planning Regulations as amended.

How long does an applicant have to lodge additional information?

6 months. From 31/03/2003 an additional 3 months can be granted where agreed.

Can I demolish a habitable home without permission?

No, you can demolish part of a habitable home to provide a domestic extension.

What is a Declaration and Referral on Development & Exempted Development (i.e. what is a Declaration of Exemption)?

If a query arises as to whether a proposal requires Planning Permission or whether it is exempted development, a submission may be made, in writing with proposals or maps - the more information the better accompanied by a fee (€80.00). The planner will consider submissions & we reply within 4 weeks as to whether it does require planning permission or not. The applicant can refer the decision to An Bord Pleanala accompanied by a fee (€150.00).
(Section 5, Planning & Development Act, pg 28)

Can photocopies of maps be given out to the public?

Photocopies of maps on planning applications registered before 11-Mar-2002 cannot be issued. Any photocopies of maps on files registered after 11-Mar-2002 must be individually date stamped and a declaration under Section 74 (4) of the Copyright and related Rights Act, 2000 must be signed by the purchaser of the maps and placed on the planning file.

Why is there no water supply to my house?

The water could be turned off to facilitate the repair of a burst watermain in your area. Check with your neighbours to see if they have water. If your neighbours have a water supply, it could mean there's an internal problem within your own property, therefore you would need to source a plumber to check your system.

My drains are blocked. What can I do?

The owner of the property is responsible for the drain all the way to the Council's main sewer, even where the drain runs over a public space, e.g. over the path and/no over the road. When called out, the Council Inspector will be able to locate the site of the blockage by examining the Council's sewer manholes. If the Council's sewer is clear, this means the blockage is in the private drain of the house/houses. In that case, the owner of the house should find a suitable company to clear the blockage. Click on Private Drain Maintenance for more information.

Can I use my central heating if the water is off?

If your central heating system has been installed by a registered contractor, it should be run from a separate expansion tank in the attic. This water should not be affected by a water main shutdown and it should be safe to run the system. However, you should check with your installer/plumber to confirm.

Am I allowed to burn smoky coal in my fireplace?

From the 1st September 2012 it is now an offence to burn "smoky" or bituminous coal anywhere in Dublin City or County, and you can be fined up to €5,000 in court if you do so.
For further information, please click here.

Is it okay to burn waste?

No! Burning household or garden waste is now illegal, and you can be fined up to €3,000 for doing so. "Backyard Burning" is bad for the environment, causes nuisance to neighbours and can also cause health problems.
Click on the following link for further information relating to the Burning of Waste.

What can I do about noisy neighbours?

If you are subjected to noise nuisance from domestic or residential premises you may apply directly to your local District Court for a Court Order under Section 108 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1992. Further information regarding Section 108 Notices and noise pollution is available by clicking on the attached guide to the Noise Regulations Leaflet (pdf - 2.24MB)
Persons affected by noise nuisance caused by tenants in private rented dwellings may also apply directly to the Private Residential Tenacies Board (PRTB) at www.prtb.ie or ph. (01) 635 0600 to resolve the problem. The PRTB can legally direct landlords to ensure that their tenants comply with the terms of their tenacy agreements regarding noise and other forms of anti-social behaviour.
If you are subjected to noise nuisance caused by tenants in Council-owned dwellings, you can make a complaint directly to the Anti-Social Behaviour Section of the Housing Dept.
For further information, please click on the following link to Noise Pollution.

How do I dispose of asbestos?

Asbestos is a form of hazardous waste that is potentially very dangerous to human health, if not handled and disposed of correctly. Asbestos should only ever be removed and transported by specialist waste contractors who have an appropriate permit. Asbestos cannot be brought to Ballyogan Recycling Park or any other Council waste facility.
Click on the following link for further information on asbestos removal and disposal.

What are the permitted times for building works?

While there are no set times in law limiting the working hours on building sites, there are guideline standard times that apply to construction activity. If work takes place outside of these hours, it can then be regarded as a source of noise nuisance, and investigated by the Council’s EHOs (Environmental Health Officers). In addition, restrictions on construction working times can also be imposed by way of planning permission conditions.
The accepted standard times for building activity in Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown are as follows:
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sundays & Bank Holidays: Works not allowed.
However, please note these are guideline times only, and in certain circumstances it may be necessary for building works to take place outside of these hours. In addition, these guideline times do not apply to any kind of emergency works carried out by the ESB, Iarnród Eireann, Bord Gais, etc.
For further information, please click on the following link to Noise Pollution.

How do I dispose of my old car?

Car owners can bring their old vehicles to local ATFs (Automated Treatment Facilities) for environmentally safe disposal and recycling, free of charge. Click on the following link for further information about End of Life Vehicles.
Alternatively, DLR County Council also provides a vehicle collection service for privately owned cars free of charge.

What are the charges for using Ballyogan Recycling Park?

Full details of the range of charges that may apply to householders, and the types of waste material accepted at the Civic Recycling Facility, are available on the Ballyogan Recycling Park web-page.

Where can I dispose of used batteries?

By law, any shop that sells batteries to the public must also take back similiar types of old batteries for recycling, free of charge. Many shops now have blue boxes for battery recycling on display. There is no need to buy any new batteries when you return waste batteries to a shop, and it doesn't matter if you bought your used batteries somewhere else. Waste batteries are also accepted at any of the Council's Recycling Centres. Never put batteries in your household waste bin!
Click on the following link for further information on waste batteries.

What are the WEEE Regulations?

WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment) is basically any type of appliance or device that requires either electrical or battery power in order to operate, and whose owner wishes to dispose of as waste. In addition to larger household items such as televisions, computers, cookers, fridges and washing machines, it also includes smaller personal items such as cameras, toys, watches, mobile phones and MP3 players.
The WEEE Regulations were introduced in 2005 to promote the environmentally responsible disposal, collection, and recycling of electrical goods and appliances in Ireland. One of the main features of the regulations is the free take-back of similar WEEE items on a one-for-one basis that must be offered by retailers to customers when they purchase a new electrical or electronic product.
For further information, please click on the following link to WEEE

What are the Organic Solvents Regulations?

These Regulations exist to regulate the commercial usage of solvents across various sectors of industry in Ireland, (including Dry Cleaning, Printing, Lamination and Surface Coating processes) and thus reduce potential air pollution.
For further detailed information, click on this link to the Regulations

What are the "Deco Paints" Regulations?

These Regulations affect businesses such as crash repair operators that are involved in Vehicle Refinishing activities. The Regulations apply to all commercial operators that use paint products containing Organic Solvents on their premises.
For further detailed information, click on this link to the Deco Paints Regulations

How do I request signing and lining on a road?

The Council receives over 300 requests annually for statutory signing and lining measures.
The Traffic Advisory Group (TAG) deals with all of these requests.
This group was formally established in August 2006 and comprises representatives from An Garda Síochána and engineers of the Traffic Section.
As well as discussing requests received from the public, the elected members, Dublin Bus and business groups, TAG examines issues identified directly by the Traffic Section and An Garda Síochána.
The TAG meets monthly for discussion on an agenda of items, a copy of which is circulated to the elected members for their information. The recommendations of each meeting of the TAG, is brought to the Area Committees for noting under Council Business entitled “Consultation with Garda Commissioner”.
As this is a statutory or legal procedure decided upon by the traffic engineers and An Garda Siochana a formal request for TAG items should be sent by email to traffic@dlrcoco.ie or in writing to the Transportation Department, Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
It is important to outline the reasons for your request and include, if possible, supporting evidence as to why it should be warranted.
A TAG requested can be any of the following:
Stop
yield
no entry
yellow box
hatching
mandatory signs
prohibitory signs
single yellow line
double yellow line
loading bay
school keep clear
disabled persons parking bay
continuous white line
clearway
weight restriction ban
no u-turn
Once a lining or signing request has been provided you are legally required to abide by them or you will be subject to a punishment or penalty.

How do I request renewal of faded road markings?

Requests for renewals of road lining should be submitted via email to traffic@dlrcoco.ie or in writing to the Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
Please give exact details of the locations in question.
The Traffic Engineer will then re-examine the location and if a renewal of lining is warranted the item will be sent to the lining contractor for inclusion in his list of works. Please note that renewals of line markings are not included as part of the TAG process.

Please submit your request in writing to the Transportation Department, Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County County, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin or email traffic@dlrcoco.ie with the details.
There is a standard charge of €100 for administration costs plus an additional charge of €50 if maps/drawings are required.
The report includes any faults reported in the period required, a drawing showing the phase diagram and a copy of the timings.

How do I request a pedestrian crossing in my area?

A pedestrian crossing is a street location where pedestrians have right of way by means of a traffic signal.
You can request a pedestrian crossing in your area by emailing mailto:traffic@dlrcoco.ieor in writing to the Transportation Department, Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin.
Please include the following details:
Your name and address.
The name of the street or road where you wish a pedestrian crossing to be installed.
Why you feel a pedestrian crossing is needed at the location
A photograph of the location (if possible).
Traffic Section will investigate your request, taking into consideration road width, proximity to other crossing points, pedestrian flow counts and traffic volume and accident history to decide if a pedestrian crossing is warranted in that location.
In some circumstances when a traffic light is not warranted, Traffic Section will investigate the provision of a pedestrian refuge/island.

How do I apply for a Temporary Road Closure?

Before any application for a temporary road closure is made, the applicant MUST first contact the Traffic Section of the Transportation Department by emailing traffic@dlrcoco.ie, or phoning (01) 205 4700 to arrange a meeting with the relevant Traffic Area Engineer.
Once you have spoken to a traffic engineer and if a closure is considered suitable you can complete our temporary road closure application form (PDF File - 96 KB) and submit it to Traffic Section, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin for processing.

How do I get traffic calming measures in my estate?

As limited financial resources are available for the implementation of traffic calming measures, the Traffic Section engaged a Consulting Engineer to prioritise all requests for traffic calming in December 2007 as a means to allocate funds appropriately to the areas most in need.
For more information take a look at the “Prioritisation of Traffic Calming Schemes in the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council Area” Report ( 2008).
However, due to subsequent funding restraints Traffic Section will be prioritising the implementation of the 16 schemes identified for Accident Investigation and Prevention (AIP), as identified in the report, once funding is available ahead of the Listing of Prioritised Traffic Calming Schemes. These areas warrant the attention of AIP assessment due to high accident rates on the street(s), junctions and/or areas that surround the evaluated locations.
In the meantime any request for traffic calming will be put on a list for consideration in the drawing up of future traffic calming programmes. Where an estate is not in charge of the Council, the Council is not empowered to provide traffic calming measures in the form of speed reducing ramps, etc. Concerns in relation to speeding, careless or dangerous driving in an area should be brought to the attention of the local Garda Station.

Who do I contact regarding QBC's and cycle-tracks?

Traffic section in conjunction with Transportation Planning and Road Projects Office and the Quality Bus Network Project Office is responsible for the delivery of the Quality Bus Network as outlined in the Dublin Transportation Office Strategy “Platform for Change” and Transport 21.
We continue to implement cycle-tracks, which will continue to be extended in accordance with the our cycling policy document.
We are also continuing our role-out of cycle parking facilities at key locations throughout the county.--

What are the steps involved in building a road or carrying out major road improvements?

The planning for a new road or major road improvement project involves a design and consultation process, which is approved either by the elected Members of the County Council under Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, or by An Bord Pleanála, depending on the size and scope of the project. An Bord Pleanála may hold an Oral Hearing chaired by an Inspector appointed by The Board to hear the evidence of the promoting authority and the submissions of interested parties.

How do I see the details of the proposed project?

Preliminary designs for the project are published by the Council before a public consultation process. Once approved, a detailed design is carried out.
The public consultation period runs for 8 weeks and is advertised in the national press and by leaflet drop in the locality.
The Council holds public information evenings during the consultation period at a venue in the area of the proposed works.
Also, during the consultation period drawings are available for viewing at the Planning Department in County Hall, Dún Laoghaire and at the Council Offices in Dundrum.
Details and drawings for current and proposed projects are also available.

What do I do if my property is affected by a proposed project or road construction works on site?

If you have an interest in or comments to make concerning a proposed road project, you should make a submission during the Public Consultation period, or make contact with the Project Engineer for the County Council whose contact details are given with the details of the scheme. In circumstances where the Council propose to acquire property for a road project, the Council will make direct contact with the owner / occupier.
If any issue arises during the construction of a road, such as access problems, damage, or interruption of water or power, you should contact the Council’s Resident Engineer for the scheme who will assist you.
His / her contact details are distributed by leaflet in the area of the scheme prior to commencement of the works, or are available by contacting the Council’s Road Projects Office on 00 353 (1) 2054839 or by email roadprojects@dlrcoco.ie

How do I report road or footpath defects?

Road or footpath defects such as potholes, cracks, subsidence, etc should be reported to the Road Maintenance Section, Transportation Department.
Reports should include the nature of the defect and the exact location i.e. the address of the premises closest to the defect.
To report defects in the road or footpath you can:
Email: roadmaintenance@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054879
Write to:
Road Maintenance Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

How do I report street light faults?

Public Lighting faults should be reported to the Public Lighting Section, Transportation Department.
Fault reports should include the number of the lamp post, the address closest to the lamp and the nature of the fault i.e: light out / on 24-7 / going on and off, etc.
Public lighting faults can be reported by:
Email to: lighting@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054809
Write to:
Public Lighting Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

What do I do if trees or hedges from private property are overgrowing the public footpath or road?

If trees or bushes from private property are overgrowing onto the road or footpath and causing a hazard the location / address of the problem should be reported to the Road Maintenance Section, Transportation Department.
You can contact the Road Maintenance Section by:
Email: roadmaintenance@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054879
Write to:
Road Maintenance Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

How do I find out who is carrying out road or footpath works?

If there are works in progress that you would like information about i.e. purpose or duration. you can contact the Road Maintenance Section, Transportation Department.
You can contact us by:
Email: roadmaintenance@dlrcoco.ie
Phone: 01-2054879
Write to:
Road Maintenance Section,
Transportation Department,
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,
County Hall,
Marine Road,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.

Have there been any recent changes in legislation that I should know about?

Yes, recent Government legislation requires us to make some changes to the eligibility criteria for housing support and housing assessment.

What will this mean for me as an existing Social Housing Support applicant?

Under the new regulations, you must be eligible and have a need for housing to be considered for an offer of social housing support.
Social housing support means that you may be eligible for housing in Council owned properties, RAS (Rental Accommodation Scheme) properties, Long Term Leasing properties, Voluntary Housing Association properties etc.

What is the role of the council following the changes in legislation?

The Council are now obliged to begin the process of reassessing all applicants for Social Housing. The process of reassessment may take some time.

Will the re-assessment affect my position on the housing list?

The position of people on the list may change following re-assessment. The eligibility of some people for housing support may also change. While the attached letter details your current position on the Social Housing Support Waiting List, you should note that a full reassessment of your eligibility and need under the new regulations has yet to take place.

Could I be removed from the list?

You will only be removed from the Social Housing Support list if you are not eligible under the new regulations, or if it is established that you do not have a housing need.

If I am eligible to receive social housing support, which areas can I choose?

You may identify up to three housing areas – however, one must be in the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown area. Your other two choices could be in the other Dublin Local Authority areas i.e. Dublin City Council, South Dublin County Council and/or Fingal County Council.
If you so decide, your three choices may all lie within the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council area.
You may change your choice of housing area once in any twelve month period.

Who do I contact in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council if I have further questions?

Account Queries can be directed to the Council’s Waste Charges section on (01) 205 4747. Or by e-mail to charges@dlrcoco.ie.

When is my last collection from Dún Laoghaire- Rathdown County Council?

Your last collection by the Council will be on your normal collection day during the week beginning the 19th July 2010.

Will the Green Bin Recycling service continue?

Yes, Panda will take over the Green Bin service that is currently provided by Greyhound.

Do I keep my 'grey' and 'green' bin?

Yes, if you decide to avail of the Panda service. Otherwise you should contact the Council on (01) 205 4810 and we will arrange to remove your bins.

Will my bins be rebranded?

Yes, Panda will arrange to do this directly in due course.

Will my collection day change?

Your collection day will stay the same for the moment. Although Panda currently collect 80% of their customers on the same day as the Council, it is intended that the same collection day will apply to any single area for both existing Panda customers and the new Council customers, eventually. There will be a gradual rationalisation of routes over time and Panda will notify you in good time of any intended change.

Return them to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (Waste Charges, Finance and Risk Management Department), County Hall, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin for a refund

Does Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council provide a waste collection service?

The Council ceased providing a waste collection service in 2010. Residents in the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown administrative area are now responsible for making their own arrangements to dispose of refuse by engaging the services of a permitted private refuse collecgtor and/or using the recycling and disposal facilities provided by the Council at bottle banks, Ballyogan Recycling Park, Ballyogan Road, Dublin 18 and at Eden Park, Glasthule, and Shanganagh Recycling Centres.

Will Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council continue to provide bottle-banks?

Yes. We will continue to provide recycling facilities at bottle banks, and also at Ballyogan, Eden Park and Shanganagh recycling centres.

What happens to the staff working in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council bin service?

Staff who currently provide the ‘grey’ bin service will either be redeployed or avail of voluntary redundancy. Redeployed staff will contribute to the delivery of improved services across the areas of Street Cleansing, Water & Waste services, Transportation and Parks.There will be no compulsory redundancies.

Who do I contact in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council if I have further questions?

Account Queries can be directed to the Council’s Waste Charges section on (01) 205 4747. Bin service queries can be directed to the Council’s Waste Management section on (01) 205 4810

Summary of Water Charges for 2014

Charge Description
Water only
Waste-water only
Water & Waste-water
Metered Water/Wastewater services - per cubic metre
€1.04
€1.24
€2.28
Metered Mixed Supplies
General Domestic Allowance per residential unit:
165 m3 per annum
55 m3 per four month bill
Per Capita Domestic Allowance (Residential Institutions):
51 m3 per qualifying person per annum
17 m3 per person per four month bill
Standing Charge – per four month bill
Up to 1” or 25mm
€53
Up to 2” or 50mm
€95
Up to 4” or 100mm
€195
Up to 6” or 150mm
€250
Up to 8” or 200mm
€330
Up to 10” or 250mm
€495
Special Read Charge
€150
(Water charges will be based on metered quantities at the unit rates shown in the table above, plus Annual Standing Charge. Fixed or estimated charges on some customers may apply where metering problems arise.)

Who must pay water charges?

All non-domestic users of the water service must pay water charges.
Under the Water Pricing policy, government funding is provided to local authorities for domestic water services only. Domestic water is very strictly defined to mean water for ordinary household purposes within a residential situation.
There is a specific requirement on local authorities to meter and charge for all non-domestic water supplied and there is no discretion for exceptions because there is no other source of funding. As is the case with other utilities, there is no option to waive water charges. However, unlike private utility suppliers, no profit may be made on the service.
It is also hoped that consumers will be conscious of the water they use and will try and conserve water which is a valuable and finite resource. A lot of water is wasted through taps not being turned off when not in use and through leakages in taps and pipes. Charging by volume is in accordance with the application of the “Polluter Pays” Principle and the EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC).

Who bills for non-domestic water?

The relevant Local Authority bills for non-domestic water. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County council will bill for its area.

How is it charged?

THere is an annual standing charge for the available of the service plus a volume charge based on the volume of water used.

Who decides how much I pay?

The charge for water supply and for wastewaster collection and treatment is based on the actual cost of providing the service. Water supplies are metered to the maximum practicable extent and bills are based on this information.

How will I benefit from a water meter?

Water charges are now based on an annual standing charge plus a charge based on the volume used - the less water used, the less you pay. The metering system provides information regarding water usage and will alert the customers and Local Authorities to possible leaks. It may be worthwhile for customers to examine current water usage with a view to economising and conserving water where possible - further advice is available online at www.taptips.ie/at-work.htm . Commercial rates no longer contribute to water services funding.

Where are water meters installed?

In the majority of cases the meters and meter reading equipment is located externally and as close to the property boundary as possible. However in some cases, due to services congestion or limited space, meters have to be installed internally within the premises.

If there is a leak, who is responsible?

The customer is responsible for all leaks downstream of the meter; responsibility extends to payment for all water measured by the meter and location and repair of leaks.
In the majority of circumstances, the council is responsible for leaks upstream or at the customer’s meter. The exception is where it has been necessary to install a meter within a customers premises. In this case, the customer is responsible for leaks upstream of the meter as far as the premises boundary or stopcock in the public area.
In the exceptional circumstance where the meter to customer pipe junction is leaking downstream of the meter, the council may be responsible for the repair of the leak and attributable water usage. Where there is reason to suspect that this is the case, the council will excavate to inspect this junction on payment of a deposit of €750. This deposit and water usage attributable to the leak will be refunded or credited against water charges only where the joint is found to be leaking. Where the connection pipe from the meter to the customer boundary is found to be leaking, the responsibility for water usage rests with the customer as above but the repair will be carried out by the council on the customer’s behalf, the repair cost being set against the deposit.

What happens if there is a business within a home?

If it is not practicable to separately meter the non-domestic usage, a domestic allowance will be applied and deducted from the metered volume of water supplied.

You can pay your water charges by the following methods
By Bank Giro transferA Bank Giro will be attached to your bill.
By PostCheques, Postal Orders or Money Orders
In personAt the Council’s Offices by cheque.
Cash is not accepted at the Council's offices in County Hall or Dundrum. Also, cash should not be sent through the post.

Who do I contact if I have problems with my water or wastewater services?

Rates are a property-based tax levied by Local Authorities on the occupiers of commercial/industrial properties in their administrative area.

What does "Rate is made" mean?

Each year, following the Annual Budget meeting, the Rate books for the County are prepared and are available for inspection by the public for 14 days. After the 14 days the rate is made by the County Manager and the seal of the Council is fixed to the Rate books. This would generally happen late January/early February each year. The date the Rate is made is advertised in the media each year.

What is the money raised through rates used for?

The income generated by rates is used to fund a wide range of services provided by the County Council throughout the County.

What is Rateable Valuation?

All properties are given a rateable valuation by the Commissioner of Valuation in the Valuation Office. The Commissioner of Valuation is independent of Local Authorities.

What is Annual Rate of Valuation?

Following the consideration of the Annual Budget each year, the elected members of the County Council (Councillors) determine the Annual rate of valuation to be levied for the following year.

Rates are calculated by multiplying the valuation of your property by the annual rate on valuation (ARV). The Commissioner of Valuation is responsible for valuations and the Local Authority for the ARV. Both of these terms are clarified as follows:
Valuation: The valuation of property is determined by the Commissioner of Valuation. The basis of valuation is the Net Annual Value (NAV) i.e. the open market rental value of the property at a specified valuation date. For the purposes of revaluation in Dún Laoghaire the relevant valuation date was the 30th September 2005.
Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV):The "Annual Rate on Valuation" (formerly known as "the rate in the pound"), is in effect a multiplier, and it is determined by the Council at its Annual Budget Meeting. The rate" is then made by the County Manager following a public notification process. The annual rate on valuation for 2013 is €0.1666. Both the valuation and ARV are shown on your rates bill and a sample calculation would be as follows:
Eg. Rateable Valuation x
Annual Rate of Valuation =
Rates
€100,000
€0.1666
€16,660

When do the rates become due?

Rates are payable in two moieties (i.e. two instalments), the first moiety when the rate is made and on receipt of the rates bill by the occupier of the premises and the second moiety by the 1st July. As an alternative, Ratepayers can opt to pay by monthly direct debit.

How do I pay my rates?

You can pay your rates by the following methods:
By Direct DebitYou can pay your rates in monthly instalments over the course of one year.
Commercial Rates Direct Debit Mandate (pdf -40kb) Word doc 146 KB
By Bank Giro Credit Transfer/EFTA Bank Giro is attached to your Rate Demand.
To your Rate CollectorSee details below
By PostCheques, Money Order and Postal Orders.
In personAt the Council’s Offices in Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum Cash is not accepted at the Council's offices in County Hall or Dundrum. Also, cash should not be sent through the post.

Who is my Rate Collector?

There are there Rate Collectors in the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown area. The Rate Collectors are responsible for collection rates in their own areas.
Blackrock/Dún Laoghaire/Stillorgan
P.J. Meagher is acting as Rate Collector for the area from the County boundary with Dublin City to the centre of Dún Laoghaire. His areas include Booterstown, Blackrock, Monkstown, Part of Dún Laoghaire from the Monkstown towards Royal Marine Road and Stillorgan/Clonskeagh. He can be contacted at (01) 205 4798 or 086 8585867or via e-mail at pjmeagher@dlrcoco.ie.
Dún Laoghaire/Shankill
Emma Hynes is the Rate Collector for the area from the centre of Dún Laoghaire to the County boundary with Bray. Her areas include part of Dún Laoghaire from Royal Marine Road towards Glasthule, Glasthule, Dalkey, Shankill, Cherrywood, Foxrock. She can be contacted at (01) 205 4895 or 086 0204632 or via e-mail at ehynes@dlrcoco.ie.
Dundrum/Sandyford
Barbara Hanney is the Rate Collector for the west side of the County. Her areas include Dundrum, Stillorgan, Sandyford, Rathfarnham and Churchtown. She can be contacted at (01) 204 7088 or 086 1714135 or via e-mail at bhanney@dlrcoco.ie.

Must I pay rates if my property is vacant?

If a property is vacant on the day the rate is made (24th January 2013) and is available for letting or undergoing refurbishment the rates must still be paid to the Council. The Ratepayer may get a rates refund provided the full year’s rates have been paid and certain conditions have been met.
The Ratepayer will need to complete a Vacancy Refund Form (Rates) (pdf -59kb) , statutory undertaking and provide documentary evidence of his/her attempts to let or refurbish the property.

If a tenant moves into a premises and there are rates due on it, can the tenant be held liable?

A subsequent occupier may be held liable for arrears of rates for up to two years from the making of the rate. It is up to the new occupier to ensure that all rates, including the current year’s rates, and all other liabilities (e.g. water/ environmental waste charges) are paid before the closing of a sale or the assignment of a lease of any rateable property.

What happens if I do not pay my Rates?

If rates are not paid, legal proceedings will be initiated for the collection of the debt.

What are the contact details of the Rates Section in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council?

If you are unhappy with the Valuation as revised by the Revision officer, there is a further right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. The Valuation Tribunal is an independent body set up to settle disputed valuations.
You must apply in writing the Valuation Tribunal within 28 days of receiving your notification of decision from the Revision Officer. It must be accompanied by the appropriate fee.
The contact details for the Valuation Tribunal are:
Floor oneOrmond HouseOrmond Quay UpperDublin 7
Phone: (01) 872 8177 Fax: (01) 872 8060 E-mail: info@valuation-trib.ie
The decision of the Valuation Tribunal is final, subject to an appeal to the High Court on a point of law.

What is the Entry Year Property Levy and am I liable?

The Entry Year Property Levy is a charge which the Local Authority applies to all newly erected or newly constructed properties pending the levying of commercial rates. It has been introduced for the first time in 2007 under the Local Government (Business Improvement istricts) Act 2006, which was enacted on the 24th December 2006.

What is Revaluation?

A revaluation is the production of an up-to-date Valuation List of all commercial and industrial property, within a rating authority area, by reference to property rental values at the specified valuation date, which, in the case of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area, was the 30th September 2005. Revaluation will result in a redistribution of commercial rates liability between ratepayers.

Who is responsible for Revaluation?

The Commissioner of Valuation initiated the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown revaluation in accordance with the powers vested in him under the Valuation Act 2001, after the required statutory consultation with both the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. He made a Valuation Order on the 27th of June 2008 which started the process in the County of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.

Why did the Commissioner of Valuation initiate the Revaluation process?

The former Valuation Lists did not reflect the major shifts in property values that have occurred over the years. The Commissioner sought to bring more equity, fairness and transparency into the Local Authority rating system by having valuations in line with more up to date property rental values. This is to ensure Local Authority commercial rates are assessed on the basis of an up-to-date list of valuations of commercial and industrial properties.

The Valuation date of the 30th September 2005 is surely irrelevant having regard to downturn the market?

Nobody could be blamed for reaching that conclusion. The follow on to this is that ratepayers will think their rates assessment is higher than it should be because their rental values have now dropped. This is not the case. The base valuation date is largely irrelevant as the Council’s multiplier (the ARV) is altered to ensure the same levels of rates are payable, regardless of the Valuation date.

How does this distribution of Rates Liability Work?

An example is the best way to explain this. Look at the following:
Property A
Property B
Property C
Total Rates
Rateable Valuation
€200
€200
€200
ARV – Pre Revaluation
€69.20
€69.20
€69.20
Rates Liability – Pre Revaluation
€13,840
€13,840
€13,840
€41,520
Rental Value
€60,000
€81,500
€100,000
ARV Post Revaluation
€0.170
€0.170
€0.170
Rates Liability After Revaluation
€10,200
€13,855
€17,000
€41,055
Before revaluation, each property had the same valuation and the same rates assessment. The total rates take for the Council is €41,520. After revaluation the rateable valuations now reflect the open market rental values (as at the valuation date of the 30th September 2005). You can see, following revaluation, that property A has a decreased rates assessment, property B is virtually unchanged while property C gets an increased assessment. The Council’s overall take is also less.

Will the revaluation process increase my rates bill?

Revaluation is a distribution of rates liability between Ratepayers. While 60% of Ratepayers will have a decease or no change in their rates assessment this year, 40% unfortunately will have an increased assessment following revaluation and if you are in this bracket it is important that you are aware of your right of appeal - you have up until the 8th February 2011 to exercise this right.

What if i already made "representations" when the proposed Valuation Certificates issued last year?

The Commissioner of Valuation considered over 2,200 individual representations from ratepayers before issuing his final Valuation Certificates. If you already made representations that have been determined by the Commissioner, you still have the right of appeal. However you should bear in mind that the Commissioner would have taken into account the matters raised by you in your representations prior to issuing a final Valuation Certificate.

I have received my Final Valuation Certificate from the Valuation Office. What should I do now?

You should examine all of the documentation sent to you by the Valuation Office, particularly the extract from the Valuer’s Report, and ensure you are satisfied that it is correct. You will also have received from the Council a letter in January indicating your rates liability for 2011, the valuation of your property and the latest date for submission of appeals.
As part of the revaluation process, draft Valuation Certificates were issued to Ratepayers in June and September of last year. At that time, ratepayers were invited to make representations to the Commissioner of Valuation. Over 2,200 ratepayers made representations. Any representations made were taken into consideration by the Commissioner prior to the issue of final Valuation Certificates.
If you are dissatisfied with the Commissioner’s determination of your valuation, you can appeal his decision. You have up until the 8th February 2011 to make your appeal. The Commissioner of Valuation will consider your appeal and make a decision within 6 months of receiving the appeal.

What if I am still unhappy with my valuation after this appeal?

There is a further right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. To be valid, an appeal to the Valuation Tribunal must follow the determination of the initial appeal by the Commissioner of Valuation. It must be in writing and must specify the grounds of appeal. The appeal must be made within 28 days and must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. For more information on the Valuation Tribunal visit www.valuation-trib.ie/

Is the Valuation Tribunal's decision final?

The decision of the Valuation Tribunal is final on the amount of the valuation. However, there is a further right of appeal to the High Court on a point of law and ultimately to the Supreme Court.

Where can I get further information on my valuation or the revaluation process?

I had heard that the Council had reduced its “rate” by 2% but yet many ratepayers have had an increase in their rates assessment for this year. Why is this?

The “rate” is normally the term associated with the ARV which is determined by the Council. We cannot compare the ARV for 2011 (€0.170) with that for 2010 (€69.20) as the ARV for 2011 is really a starting point following revaluation.
As with any exercise of the nature of a general revaluation of commercial properties certain categories of Ratepayers will enjoy a net gain, others will not. And even within those categories of properties where the overall rates burden will have decreased certain individual properties will show an increase in their rates liability. The revaluation process, undertaken by the Commissioner of Valuation in accordance with legislation, has resulted in 56% of ratepayers enjoying decreased rates bills, 4% seeing no change & 40% unfortunately having an increased bill.
What the Council has done in recognition of the difficulties re-valuation has caused many Ratepayers is to drop its rates income from what it could have been (€91.3m), as provided for in the revaluation legislation, to €88.9m, a decrease of 2.6% which has had the effect of bringing the ARV down to €0.170 instead of the higher figure permissible under the legislation of €0.174.

Will the revaluation increase the commercial rates income for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council?

No. The Valuation Act 2001 provides that the rates income collectible by a Council in the year immediately following revaluation cannot exceed the previous year’s rates income other than by the increase attributable to inflation. If the Council had adopted an ARV allowed for under the legislation the ARV in 2011 would have been €.0174. However, Members adopted an ARV of €0.170, 2.3% less than that permissible under the legislation. Furthermore, the Council has suffered a significant financial loss attributable to the Re-Valuation process arising from the necessity to make provision for any potential losses arising from appeals to the Valuation Office/Valuation Tribunal in 2011. It can therefore be seen that the Council did not benefit in any financial manner from the Re-Valuation process and in actuality Re-Valuation has resulted in a very significant negative impact on the Council’s finances.

The ARV in 2010 was €69.20. This year it is €0.170. Why such a difference?

The reason for this is due to the revaluation process (Explained further below). In 2010 the total rateable valuation of all property in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area was approximately €1,287,000. The Council’s required rates income for the year was €89,060,500 giving an ARV (multiplier) of €69.20 (€89,060,500/ €1,287,000 = €69.20).
Under revaluation all valuations increased to reflect open market rental values at the 30th September 2005. This means that in 2011 the total valuation of all properties in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area is €523,206,100. The Council’s required rates income for the year is €88,899,100 giving an ARV (multiplier) of €0.170 (€88,899,100/ €523,206,100 = €0.170).

Did the Council financially benefit from Revaluation?

As outlined in the previous paragraph the Valuation Act 2001 provides that the rates income collectible by a Council in the year immediately following revaluation cannot exceed the previous year’s rates income other than by the increase attributable to inflation. If the Council had adopted an ARV allowed for under the legislation the ARV in 2011 would have been €.0174.
However, Members adopted an ARV of €0.170, 2.3% less than that permissible under the legislation. Furthermore, the Council has suffered a significant financial loss attributable to the Re-Valuation process arising from the necessity to make provision for any potential losses arising from appeals to the Valuation Office/Valuation Tribunal in 2011. It can therefore be seen that the Council did not benefit in any financial manner from the Re-Valuation process and in actuality Re-Valuation has resulted in a very significant negative impact on the Council’s finances.

Under the legislation, I understand that the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government imposed a limit on Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown’s rates income for this year. Can you clarify?

This is correct. Under the Valuation Act 2001 (S.56), the Minister made a Limitation Order the effect of which was to allow for an increase in the Council’s rates income taking account of inflation using the CPI index year on year. It meant the maximum ARV the Council could fix in 2011 was €0.174. The Council’s budgetary objective was to try and limit the impact of revaluation on those ratepayers whose valuations increased. The Council decided therefore to reduce the ARV from that permissible to €0.170. This meant the Council had to make further cost savings of €2.3m to fund the reduction in the ARV in order to present a balanced budget.

Who do I contact if I have a query on my rates bill?

Ratepayers should contact the Rate Collector for their area. Ratepayers can also contact the Rates Office at 01-2054821 or email rates@dlrcoco.ie
Blackrock/Dún Laoghaire/Stillorgan
P.J. Meagher is acting as Rate Collector for the area from the County boundary with Dublin City to the centre of Dún Laoghaire. His areas include Booterstown, Blackrock, Monkstown, Part of Dún Laoghaire from the Monkstown towards Royal Marine Road and Stillorgan/Clonskeagh. He can be contacted at (01) 205 4798 or 086 8585867or via e-mail at pjmeagher@dlrcoco.ie.
Dún Laoghaire/Shankill
Emma Hynes is the Rate Collector for the area from the centre of Dún Laoghaire to the County boundary with Bray. Her areas include part of Dún Laoghaire from Royal Marine Road towards Glasthule, Glasthule, Dalkey, Shankill, Cherrywood, Foxrock. She can be contacted at (01) 205 4895 or 086 0204632 or via e-mail at ehynes@dlrcoco.ie.
Dundrum/Sandyford
Barbara Hanney is the Rate Collector for the west side of the County. Her areas include Dundrum, Stillorgan, Sandyford, Rathfarnham and Churchtown. She can be contacted at (01) 204 7088 or 086 1714135 or via e-mail at bhanney@dlrcoco.ie.

Housing Areas

You may apply to one Local Authority only. If you are applying to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council you can choose up to three housing areas in the Dublin region, at least one of which must be in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
Your other two areas may be in Dublin City, South Dublin County or Fingal County. If you opt for an area in any other county, we will forward your information to the housing authorities chosen. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council will manage your application. Changes of areas of choice may be made once in any twelve month period by completing Area Of Choice Form.

What happens if I refuse an offer of housing?

Should you refuse two offers of housing within a twelve month period your application will be suspended for twelve months. Your application will be re-activated after this period however this suspension will not count as time on the housing list. You will not be on the Council’s Housing List for the suspension period and will not have access to Choice Based Letting or eligible for any social housing support. Your entitlement to Supplementary Rent Allowance may also be affected .

Am I eligible for Council Housing?

Criteria for eligibility for Council housing are included in the Council's Allocation Scheme.
Eligibility criteria include:
Need-You must be in genuine need of housing and be unable to provide accommodation from your own resources
Right to live in Ireland-You must have a legal right to remain in the State on a long term basis
Age-You must be 18 years of age or older
Income – your net income must be below the thresholds below:-
Single Adult: €35,000
2 Adults No Children: €36,750
1 Adult & 1 Child: €35,875
1 Adult & 2 Children: €36,750
2 Adults & 1 Child: €37,625
2 Adults & 2 Children: €38,500
2 Adults & 3 Children: €39,375
2 Adults & 4 or more Children: €40,250
3 Adults & 4 or more Children: €42,000

Housing Welfare Officer

The Housing Welfare Officer provides an efficient and professional housing related service in a holistic manner to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council tenants and applicants in need of support.
Self referals and Agency referrals may apply directly to the Housing Welfare Officer: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Housing Department, County Hall, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire.
Contact Numbers: 01 2047259 or 01 2054792

What happens if I fall into rent arrears?

Tenants who find themselves in arrears should not ignore the problem
Arrears should be paid immediately
If it is not possible to pay the arrears immediately tenants should contact the rent arrears section as soon as possible by phoning 01 2054841 or via email rents@dlrcoco.ie to discuss a repayment plan.
If a repayment plan is put in place to pay the rent and arrears over a period of time this agreement must be adhered to.
Please note that if arrears persist the Council may be forced to initiate legal proceedings to repossess the property.

What do I do if a family member/partner wishes to move into the property?

No one can move into a property without notifying and receiving permission from the Housing Department (Allocations). If anyone is planning to move into a Council property they should contact Housing Allocations on 01 2054828 to obtain a Permission to Reside form. Please be aware that the weekly rent may increase with the addition of an extra person and this additional rent will be back-dated to when the person moved in.

What do I do if a household member moves out of the property?

Please notify the Housing Department immediately if a member of your household moves out
Documentary evidence of change of address (e.g. lease agreement, utility bill etc.) must be provided to remove an occupant from the rent account

How do I check my rent balance?

A balance can be given over the phone or via email to the tenant of the property only. Please phone 01-2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie
Please note that we can only discuss tenancy matters with the named tenant of the property, unless an agreement is in place for a third party to act/speak on the tenant’s behalf
A statement is issued to tenants every three months. Tenants can check their receipts/payments against this statement.

Do I have to fill in a household information form each year?

Yes, it is a requirement of your tenancy agreement
·It is very important that tenants fill in the household information form correctly each year and supply us with current income details for all members of the household. This enables us to calculate a weekly rent which is accurate based on the income details provided.
The Council should be immediately notified if there is a change in income details of any of the members of the household during the year. If there is a delay in doing this back dated debits may be applied to your account.
Click for household information form

How do I apply for Traveller Specific Accommodation?

It is Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s policy is to provide traveller specific accommodation for the county’s indigenous Travelling Community. If you wish to apply for Traveller Specific Accommodation, you can contact the Traveller Accommodation unit at 01 2054848 or email travellers@dlrcoco.ie.

Who do I contact regarding repairs?

Tenants of Grouped housing and Halting site bays may contact the Traveller Accommodation Unit at 01 2054838 or email travellers@dlrcoco.ie. Tenants are advised to consult their Tenant Handbook prior to contacting the Traveller Accommodation Unit.

What is the purpose of the dlr Traveller Interagency Steering Group?

The dlr Traveller Interagency Steering Group is set up to co-ordinate services by all agencies that provide services to the Traveller Community. It is representative of manages in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdwon County Council, Housing Service Executive, Garda, Department of Education, Department of Social Protection, VEC and County Development Board.

Who do I contact regarding illegal encampment in a public area?

Notify the Traveller Accommodation Unit at 01 2054838 or email travellers@dlrcoco.ie
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council does not have the remit to remove illegal encampments from private property. Illegal encampments on private property are a matter for the landowner.

Who represents the Travelling Community?

The Traveller Accommodation Unit works in conjunction with the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee representative of County Councillors, Travellers and Traveller Representatives as required under the Housing (Traveller) Accommodation Act 1998. This Committee advise the Council on all matters relating to travellers and in particular their housing needs.

Am I eligible for a Housing Aid for Older People Grant?

All applications for grant aid under this scheme are means tested and the level of grant is determined as follows, the annual gross income of the registered property owner together with all household members over 18 (or 23 if in full time education) in the previous tax year up to a maximum income of €60,000, (some applicants may qualify for certain income disregards).

What type of work is covered by the grant?

The only works available under this scheme are re-wiring, re-roofing and the provision of central heating (where none exists).
N.B. Central Heating – There is no grant available under this scheme for upgrading an existing central heating system. These grants are available from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland at 1850 927000 or www.seai.ie

Am I eligible for a grant?

All applications for grant aid under this scheme are means tested and the level of grant is determined as follows, the annual gross income of the registered property owner together with all household members over 18 (or 23 if in full time education) in the previous tax year up to a maximum income of €60,000, (some applicants may qualify for certain income disregards).

I am liable for some years?

If you are liable there may be a penalty for late payment..

I paid NPPR but cannot remember details?

In order for us to assist locating a payment it is best to supply your PPS number and or the NPPR registration number which may have been emailed to you when you paid.

I sent in a 'Change of Address form' (RFA3) yet I am still listed at my previous address?

Once the Register comes into force on 15th February each year it cannot be amended. Your details will be changed in the background and if an election/referendum is called during the life of the Register you will not receive a polling card for your previous address.

I have changed address after the Register came into force on 15th February, can I be included on the Register at my new address if an Election/Referendum is called?

You can apply to be included on a Supplement to the Register by completing a Supplement Application Form (RFA3), having the form witnessed at a Garda Station and returned to us before the closing date to be included on the supplement.

I am on the Register and have now become an Irish Citizen after the Register came into force on 15th February, can my citizenship be changed on the Register if an Election/Referendum is called?

You can complete an application form (RFA5) for inclusion in the Supplement to the Register of Electors, having the form witnessed at a Garda Station and must attach evidence of your Irish citizenship, for example, a copy of your Certificate of Naturalisation or the relevant page in your Irish Passport.

I applied to be included on the Supplement but cannot see myself on line?

The Supplement is only put up on line after the closing date for inclusion.

An Election/Referendum is called and I am not registered, can I vote?

No. You must be on the Register to be able to vote.

What does Election type mean?

Presidential : Resident Irish citizens can vote in Referendum or
Presidential Election, Dáil Elections, European
Elections and Local Elections.
Dáil: Resident British citizens (D) can vote in Dáil
Elections, European Elections and Local Elections.
European: Resident EU citizens (E) can vote in European
Elections and Local Elections.
Local: Resident Non-EU citizens (L) can vote in Local
Elections.
*as indicated on the register.

What is the PPN?

The Public Participation Network (PPN) aims to enable the public as well as local organisations to voice their views and interests within the local government system. It is the main framework for public participation and engagement. Membership is open to not for profit groups in the social inclusion, environmental and general community and voluntary sectors.
www.dlrppn.ie

What is a Community Small Arts Grant?

A Community Small Arts Grant is intended to assist individual artists or bodies organise a small scale community based arts event that promotes the arts in the community and improves appreciation of the arts, access to the arts and standards in the arts in the community. Activities such as community/amateur art exhibitions, community publications of a creative writing nature and amateur musical/dramatic societies are eligible under this category.

Under the Planning regulations how long do the public have to lodge objections to additional information?

Use our Planning Deadline Calendar to calculate the last date for making an objection.
In accordance with Article 35 of the Planning and Development Regulations, persons who made a submission or observation on a planning application will only be notified of the receipt of Additional Information or Clarification of Additional Information, where that AI or CAI is considered significant and requires new public notices. Objectors have 2 weeks ( 5 weeks in case of applications accompanied by an EIS) from the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the revised notices, to make further submissions/observations. No further fee is required. Other persons wishing to make a submission/observation will be required to pay the prescribed fee.
Please note that anyone other than the applicant can make an objection/observation on a planning application.

If I wish to make an objection to a Planning Application, when can I do so?

Use our Planning Deadline Calendar to calculate the last date for making an objection.
Submissions/observations must be made within 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the planning application. The five week period commences on the day that a planning application is received, such that the last day for receipt for an objection to an application received on Tuesday 1 November is Monday 5 December. If the last day of this five week period falls on a Saturday, Sunday or Public Holiday, submissions/observations can be accepted on the next working day.
Please note that anyone other than the applicant can make an objection/observation on a planning application.
For more information on the objections process please visit our Planning Objections Page

Who are the Designated Public Officials in Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Please click here to view the 40 elected members of dlr county.
Please also see below the designated public officials of dlr:
Philomena Poole
Chief Executive
Mary T Daly
Directorate of Corporate, Communications and Governance with responsibility for Meetings Administration, Facilities Management, Local Elections, Corporate Policy and Communications Office. This also includes Tourism and Twinning & IT.
Anne Devine
Directorate of Forward Planning and Infrastructure, including Cherrywood SDZ and Active Land Management.
Frank Austin
Directorate of Infrastructure and Climate Change with responsibility for the Capital Programme, Roads Planning, Property Management, Environment Planning and Enforcement.
Helena Cunningham
Directorate of Finance and Economic Development including Risk Management with responsibility for Payroll, Accounts Payable, Rates, Debt Management, Financial Management and Risk Management. Development and implementation of the Local Economic and Community Plan and Economic Development, including the LEO office.
Mary Henchy
Directorate of Planning and Human Resources with responsibility for Forward Planning, Development Management, and Building Control.
Catherine Keenan
Directorate of Housing with responsibility for Housing - Construction, Acquisition, Maintenance, Applications, Allocations, Rents, Loans and Grants, Traveller Accommodation Provision and Management.
Tom McHugh
Directorate of Municipal Services with responsibility for Parks, Sport, Heritage, Cemeteries, Events, Concerts, Village renewal, Beaches, Water Safety, Casual Trading, Road Sweeping, Roads Maintenance, Public Lighting, Traffic, Car Parking, Water and Drainage Services, Major Emergency Management, Machinery Yard.
Dearbhla Lawson
Directorate of Community and Cultural Development with responsibility for Community Development, Community Facilities, Estate Management, LCDC, PPN, Social Inclusion and JPCs Cultural Development, Library Services and Arts, Age Friendly, Creative Ireland, Children's Services and Music Generation.

How frequent are the meetings:

The SPC meetings take place on a quarterly basis (usually March, June, September and December)

In accordance with the provisions of the legislation and guidelines from The Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, the membership of the SPCs will consist of two thirds Councillors and one third sectoral representatives. The following shall apply in relation to the membership of SPCs
• Each Councillor will be a member of 2 SPCs;
• Every member of an SPC will hold office for the lifetime of the Council
(normally five years);
• If a Councillor member of an SPC ceases to be a Councillor he or she
will also automatically cease to be a member of an SPC;
• Each nominating sector is entitled to deselect its nominees as
required.
• A sector may be represented on more than one SPC
(full details are available in the DLR Strategic Policy Committee Scheme 2014-2019)
Vacancies in the membership of the SPCs are a matter for approval by the Councillors. If a Councillor vacancy arises, the Members of the Council approve and adopted the Councillor to fill the vacancy.
If a vacancy arises from the sectoral representation, a nomination is received from the sector where the vacancy has arisen, the nomination is presented to the Members of the Council for their adoption

A chairpersons report is a report that is prepared after the SPC meeting by the Chairperson to outline what matters were dealt with at the meeting.
Chairpersons report are included on the County Council agenda for noting by Members and are then published on the Council’s website (above this page).

What is the opening fee for coffin burial?

€1000

How do I go about transferring a grave?

If you want to transfer the ownership of a grave an exclusive right of burial may be transferred to a specific family member. Permission must be sought from the Registered Owner of the grave. It is not necessary to produce the original Grave Paper issued, all registered owners are on our records.
A Transfer Agreement Form (which may be obtained from the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office) has to be completed and signed by the current registered owner at the time of transfer.
If the Registered Owner of the grave is deceased a Derivative Assignment Declaration Form (which can also be obtained from the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office) must be signed and witnessed before a Peace Commissioner by the person who wishes to take over the ownership of the grave. A Permission Form from the relevant next of kin of the registered owner may also be required which states they have no objection to the transfer of the grave, this form does not have to be witnessed by a Peace Commissioner, it should be attached to the Derivative Assignment Declaration.
There is a transfer fee of €65.00 + Vat @ 23% Total Cost: €79.95Payable by Cheque/Draft, Postal Money Order made payable to
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council or by Debit/Credit Card.Card transactions can only be made in person in the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office.
Completed forms and transfer fee should be sent to:
Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office,Dean’s Grange Road,Blackrock,Co. Dublin.
Or call in person to the Dean’s Grange Cemetery Office
Opening hours:10.00a.m. – 1.00p.m. – 2.15p.m – 4.00p.m. Monday to Friday
When all documentation and fee is received, in due course, the new owner will receive a document stating the grave has been transferred into their name.

1. Engage a monumental sculptor/stone mason. 2. This sculptor must then submit a drawing to the Office at Dean’s Grange specifying the exact measurements of the work he his going to carry out. 3.This drawing MUST be signed by the owner of the grave. If the registered owner is deceased, the relevant form must be signed by the next of kin of the deceased agreeing to the work being proposed. Proof of grave purchase, if purchased in the previous five years prior to application must also be provided. The same rule applies in the case of a replacement headstone, except there is no fee, as the foundation fees would already have been paid. 4. The only materials accepted by the Council are limestone, granite or marble. The cemetery foundation fee (for a single grave) is:​​​ ​€220 + VAT @ 13.5% Total Cost €249.70 for headstone only €370 + VAT @ 13.5% Total Cost €419.95 for headstone and kerbing €265 + VAT @ 13.5% Total Cost €300.78 for kerbing where headstone exists. Please note that no kerbing is allowed in Shanganagh cemetery as it is a Lawn Cemetery or in “The Garden” section in Dean’s Grange Cemetery as this is also a lawned area.

The occupier on the date on which the rate is made is primarily liable for the full year’s rates.
However, if a property is vacant, the owner or person "entitled to occupy" on the date the rate is made is liable for payment of the rates but will qualify for a refund of the rates paid subject to satisfying certain specified criteria which are outlined on the Vacancy Terms & Conditions Checklist.
Please visit our dedicated page to Commercial Rates Vacancy Refunds for more information.

Who is not liable for Commercial Rates?

Under Schedule 4 of the Valuation Act 2001 the following are classed as non-rateable and would therefore have no Commercial Rates due on them;
Agricultural Land
Domestic Premises
Religious Buildings
Burial Grounds
Not for profit Organisations
> Caring for sick people
> Schools/Colleges
> Art Galleries/Museums
Community Halls
Charitable Organisations (with the exception of Charity Shops)
Constituency Offices

What if I am still unhappy with my revised valuation?

If you are unhappy with the Valuation as revised by the Revision officer, there is a further right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. The Valuation Tribunal is an independent body set up to settle disputed valuations.
You must apply in writing the Valuation Tribunal within 28 days of receiving your notification of decision from the Revision Officer. It must be accompanied by the appropriate fee.
The contact details for the Valuation Tribunal are:
Floor oneOrmond HouseOrmond Quay UpperDublin 7
Phone: (01) 872 8177Fax: (01) 872 8060E-mail: info@valuation-trib.ie
The decision of the Valuation Tribunal is final, subject to an appeal to the High Court on a point of law.

What is the Valuation Office?

The Valuation Office is the State property valuation agency. The core business of the Valuation Office is the provision of accurate, up to date valuations of commercial and industrial properties to ratepayers and rating authorities as laid down by statute (principally the Valuation Act 2001).
The Office also provides consultancy services to other Government Departments, Local Authorities, Health Boards and the Revenue Commissioners. For more information on the Valuation Office, please visit their website at http://www.valoff.ie/en/

Rates are calculated by multiplying the valuation of your property by the annual rate on valuation (ARV). The Commissioner of Valuation is responsible for valuations and the Local Authority for the ARV. Both of these terms are clarified as follows:
Valuation: The valuation of property is determined by the Commissioner of Valuation. The basis of valuation is the Net Annual Value (NAV) i.e. the open market rental value of the property at a specified valuation date. For the purposes of revaluation in Dún Laoghaire the relevant valuation date was the 30th September 2005.
Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV): The "Annual Rate on Valuation" (formerly known as "the rate in the pound"), is in effect a multiplier, and it is determined by the Council at its Annual Budget Meeting. The "rate" is then made by the Chief Executive following a public notification process. The annual rate on valuation for 2018 is €0.1673. Both the valuation and ARV are shown on your rates bill and a sample calculation would be as follows:
Rateable Valuation x Annual Rate of Valuation = Rates
eg. €100,000 x €0.1673 = €16,730.00

How long will it take before I get offered housing?

Unfortunately this cannot be determined.

Am I eligible to apply for HAP?

Persons applying for HAP must be a qualified housing applicant(s) before they can apply. For more information on applying for social housing please click here.

As a Landlord will HAP affect my relationship with the tenant?

No. The contract will be a private contract between the tenant and the landlord. The HAP tenant is the landlords tenant and not a tenant of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

All rent payments to the landlord are made electronically on the last Wednesday of every month.

What Areas can HAP tenants be HAP'd into from Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

What is the HAP Transfer List?

HAP recipients move off the councils main Social Housing Waiting list onto the HAP Transfer List, retaining their time built up while on the original list.
The HAP transfer list runs side by side with the Social Housing Waiting list and will receive a precentage of dwelling allocations provided by the councl.

Why become a HAP landlord?

Why become a HAP tenant?

HAP allows recipients to take up full-time employment, while still receiving housing support
The rent contribution payable by the HAP recipient will be based on the differential rent scheme for their local authority. This scheme links the rent contribution a household must pay to the household income and the ability to pay
HAP will help to regulate the private rental sector and improve standards of accommodation. Properties will be inspected to make sure that they meet the required standards
HAP recipients will be able to avail of other social housing supports and options, if they so choose
Local authorities will be responsible for all housing supports in their area.

Why become a HAP landlord?

For landlords/agents:
The landlord or their agent will receive prompt payments directly from the local authority on a monthly basis, subject to the HAP recipient paying the local authority their rent contribution. All payments will be made electronically; there will be no need for rent collection from tenants who are HAP recipients leading to administrative savings for landlords
Landlords who rent to tenants in receipt of social housing supports like the housing assistance payment (HAP) may avail of increased tax relief under a new scheme from 1 January 2016. The new scheme will allow property owners to claim 100 per cent relief on their mortgage interest, as an expense against rental income. Further information is also available from the Revenue Commissioners on www.revenue.ie

What is the closing date for Grant Applications?

Applications can be received by hand or post up until 5pm on Friday 20th April 2018.
Applications by email will be accepted up until midnight on Friday 20th April 2018 - email address is grantschemes@dlrcoco.ie

Where can I get more information?

A copy of the full guidelines is available on the council’s website www.dlrcoco.ie or you can contact the Community Development and Social Inclusion Section on 01 2054893. You can also attend an information evening which will be run in March 2018.

Must I pay Rates if my property is vacant?

If a property is vacant on the day the rate is made and is available for letting or undergoing refurbishment the rates must still be paid to the Council. The Ratepayer may get a rates refund provided the full year’s rates have been paid and certain conditions have been met.
The Ratepayer will need to complete a Rates Vacancy Application Form statutory undertaking and provide documentary evidence of his/her attempts to let or refurbish the property.
For 2015 and 2016, the refund available is limited to 75% of the rates. For 2017, the refund available is a maximum of 50% of the rates assessed for that year.
However the 2018 budget has made a provision for a Vacant Property Assistance Scheme for ratepayers whose rate account was assessed at €10,000 or less for 2017. It provides for a relief equivalent to 8% of the rates bill assessed on eligible properties.

What is a Community Estate Enhancement Grant intended for?

The purpose of a Community Estate Enhancement Grant is to assist community groups who are trying to improve their local environment through projects or activities of an environmental nature at community level.

Who is the contractor for the baths redevelopment?

SIAC-Mantovani – a joint venture for this project. Mantovani, an Italian company, are specialists in marine works

What works will be carried out at the baths development?

The Dún Laoghaire Baths is an iconic site in the county. The new Baths will mean enhanced and free public facilities for all swimmers and sea sports enthusiasts to the sea at Dún Laoghaire.
The development represents a significant, long term investment in this public facility and will provide improved connectivity with the Metals Walkway and the People’s Park and will link Dún Laoghaire town directly to its seafront.
The development will retain the existing Baths Pavilion for use as artist workspaces and a café with terrace offering panoramic views over Scotsman’s Bay. A new jetty and changing areas will provide access to the water’s edge for swimmers and landing points for kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, etc. New public toilet facilities at street level will be fully accessible.
The new baths facility will be a long-term local amenity for the area and will provide connectivity with other local amenities in Dún Laoghaire.

Can the current buildings be preserved?

This project has been under consideration for a number of years. When investigative works were carried out at the site, it was discovered that the buildings were in a dilapidated condition. Due to the poor state of repair, it is necessary to demolish the buildings and rebuild. They are not salvageable in their current state. The main building, referred to as the Baths Pavilion, will be retained, while the newer outbuildings to the rear of the original main building will need to be demolished. The development of Dún Laoghaire Baths represents a significant, long term investment in this public facility and in the town of Dún Laoghaire

What date will the new baths open?

It is anticipated that the baths will be completed by Spring 2020.

Why are there more Artists spaces?

There is currently space in the dlr LexIcon for artists to exhibit their works. However, the Baths will provide workshop space for artists rather than exhibition space.

Will the Baths building be fully accessible?

The baths pavilion will be fully accessible to all. New public toilets at street level will also be fully accessible

Will the parking be reduced at Newtownsmith during construction?

Yes, there will be approximately 35 parking spaces unavailable for the duration of the works. We apologise for the inconvenience to all regular visitors who access this car park. These spaces will be fully reinstated once the works have been completed.
The works will take approximately 22 months to complete. In order to service these works, provide space for equipment, etc, the contractor will need to apportion space in Newtownsmith for a compound.

Will you be providing parking elsewhere for the duration of the refurbishment?

Unfortunately not. There will still be parking available at Newtownsmith for the duration of the works. The area at Newtownsmith is also halfway between two dart stations and we would encourage people to take public transport, walk or cycle if they want to avail of the amenities that the area of Newtownsmith has to offer.

Will there be traffic restrictions during the works?

During the main works it is not expected that daily traffic management restrictions will be required and no road closures are currently planned. If a road closure is required during the works this will be advertised using the normal procedures (website and social media) well in advance of any proposed closure.

What will happen to the Casement Statue?

The Casement statue will be sited at the end of the new pier which is being built to permit swimmers to enter deep water clear of the rocks at low tide. The new pier will extend approximately 15m beyond the end of an existing concrete feature and the Casement statue will sit at the end of that pier.

Will kayaks, canoes, etc, be a danger to swimmers?

No, there will be no conflict between swimmers and boaters

What consultation has there been about this project?

A public consultation process for this project was previously undertaken when we made an application for consent under the Foreshore Act to the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government in 2012.
Drawings and reports describing the proposal were made available for inspection at County Hall, Dún Laoghaire, at the Council’s offices in Dundrum and at Dún Laoghaire Garda Station, and the public was invited to make submissions on this scheme.
On foot of this, we underwent a Part 8 consultation process for a period of two months in 2015 where the public were invited to make submissions on the scheme.

Will the Baths be free to access for the public?

Yes, anyone can use the baths. The project is public owned and public led. There will be a café and terrace where members of the public can enjoy a coffee or tea looking over the Bay

Will I have to be part of a swimming club to access the baths?

No, anyone can use the baths for access to the sea. The project is public owned and public-led and open for all to use.

Who designed the development?

The new Dún Laoghaire Baths was designed in-house by dlr’s Architects’ Department.

Will you be retaining some of the features of the baths?

The ‘Baths’ entrance mat is being retained. There are a number of items of significance that are being removed and stored such as part of the old slide, pumps and a turnstile for example.

What should a tenant do if they miss a rent payment to HAP?

If for whatever reason, when HAP apply to your bank account for payment and you have insufficient funds in your account to meet the payment.
Don't panic! HAP will retry in three days to collect the monies from your account. (Do not use your payment card in the Post Office to pay until after HAP try a second time to collect the money from your account)
(Should you use your payments card before the second attempt for payment from your bank account, you may double pay for that week.
To avoid disappointment, please ensure you have sufficient funds in your account to meet your payment.

Can I build an extension to the side of my house?

No. Not an exempted development. However an existing garage to the side may be converted (see Section 6).

Who will pay the security deposit to the landlord?

The tenant is responsible for paying any security deposit a landlord may require. The local authority will not pay the security deposit for you.
Should you have difficulty in paying the security deposit, you may qualify for an "Exceptional Needs Payment" from The Department of Social Protection at http://www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/Exceptional-Needs-Payments.aspx

What are the rent caps for the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP)?

One Adult in Shared Accommodation
A Couple in Shared Accommodation
One Adult
A Couple
One Adult or Couple with one child
One Adult or Couple with two children
One Adult or Couple with three children
DLR HAP rent Limits
€430
€500
€660
€900
€1,250
€1,275
€1,300
The above are the contribution amounts Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council will pay to the landlord on your behalf. Should the rent your landlord requires exceed these figures, you can add the difference yourself to meet the monthly rent. Please note this is subject to the monthly difference you pay to the landlord added to the monthly rent contribution you pay to Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council being less than 30% of your households total monthly net income. Payments in excess of 30% of the households net monthly income will be deemed by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to be unaffordable to the household.
Should your current circumstances not equate to any of the above, please call us to discuss your situation on 01-2054399

Will HAP tenants be able to access other housing supports?

Yes.
HAP reciepients have access to other social housing supports offered by local authorities, such as local authority housing.

Why does my property need to be inspected by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Residential rental properties must provide safe, efficient, durable, comfortable and environmentally sustainable homes for those who live in them. They must also be solid, stable and secure investments for those who own them.
The high levels of demand for a limited supply of rented accommodation, which is driving high rates of rent price inflation in some parts of the country, also constitutes a threat to the quality of rented accommodation as tenants may feel obliged to accept substandard dwellings, due to the lack of affordable alternatives. In this context, the role of Housing Authorities have a critical public role and duty in ensuring compliance with the standards for rental accommodation through effective inspections.

All requests for personal details must be made in writing, either by post or email. The Council shall respond to your request within one month. You may be asked for evidence of your identity. This is to make sure that personal information is not given to the wrong person. Please address your request to:Data Protection Co-OrdinatorDún Laoghaire-Rathdown County CouncilMarine RoadDún LaoghaireCounty DublinEmail: dataprotection@dlrcoco.iePhone: +353 01 2054827In your request, you should give any details that will help the Council to identify you and find your data e.g. any previous address and/or date of birth. Also, be clear about which details you are looking for if you are only looking for certain information. You will receive these details within one month of your request however if the request is complex, and the Council is of the opinion that it requires additional time to consider the request, it may once only extend the time, by notice in writing to you, by a further period not exceeding two months.
General Data Protection Regulation Data Access Request - Print Only Version

Is there a fee involved?

In general No.However section 93(4) of the Data Protection Act 2018 provides if a request is manifestly unfounded or excessive in nature, a reasonable charge may be imposed having regard to the administrative cost of complying with the request.

What size of property can I rent on the HAP Scheme?

The property size in which HAP will pay rent to your landlord (on your behalf) depends soley on your current housing need.
Example:
If your current housing need is for a one bedroom property. HAP will only pay rent to your landlord if the property you have found is a one bedroom property.
HAP will not pay rent to a landlord of a three bedroom property on your behalf if your current housing need is for a one bedroom property
If you are unsure about your current housing need, you can contact our Allocations Department on 01 2054828

What are the main changes?

The main changes are as follows:
A new allocations scheme replaces the Scheme of Letting Priorities. This is available on our website. Housing Allocations Scheme 2011 (pdf -68kb) pdf 123kb
To be eligible for Social Housing Support in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council area you must either live in the County Council area or have a connection to the area.
You may apply to one Local Authority only. Please see point 6 below in relation to your choice of areas.
You must have a legal right to remain in the State on a long term basis.
You must not own alternative accommodation which could be occupied or sold and the proceeds used to secure other suitable accommodation.
Your net income must be below the thresholds below;
SingleAdult
Two AdultsNo Children
One AdultOne Child
One AdultTwo Children
One AdultThree Children
Two AdultsOne Child
Two AdultsTwo Children
Two AdultsFour or more Children
Three AdultsFour or more Children
€35,000
€36,750
€35,875
€36,750
€37,625
€37,625
€38,500
€40,250
€42,000

I have an air lock, how do I get rid of it?

For information on how to fix an air lock, please click on the following link, Air Locks(pdf -56kb)

How do I read my water meter?

Information on Reading your Water Meter (pdf -404kb) PDF 404 KB

How do residents go about requesting Paid Parking in their areas?

Guidelines for the Implementation of Paid Parking Control Schemes are contained in the Parking Control Bye-Laws, 2007. For an area to be considered for Paid parking control a signed petition by a number of residents should be submitted by the Residents Association, or individually on behalf of a group of residents, to the Parking Section of the Municipal Services Department. The request will be assessed by the Municipal Services Department. A traffic / parking survey will be carried out to assess the nature and extent of the parking problem in the area, whether the implementation of Paid parking control is considered appropriate, the suitability of the area and the capacity to accommodate a Paid parking control scheme. In primarily residential areas, if it is considered that Paid Parking is warranted, a survey and accompanying drawing will be circulated to eligible residents to obtain the residents preference in relation to the proposed introduction of Paid Parking. A report on the proposed introduction of a parking scheme will then be brought to the Area Committee in which the proposed Scheme is located for approval. If the Scheme is approved by the Area Committee it will then go to the full Council for final approval to introduce the Scheme.
For more information, contact the Parking Section on (01) 2054884.Email: parkingcontrol@dlrcoco.ie

How do I find out what the Paid parking restrictions are?

When parking please refer to the information plates on the street, which will indicate the period during which it is permitted to park and any parking restrictions i.e. ‘Permits not Valid’.

How much will Paid Parking cost?

The cost applicable is indicated on the Paid Parking machine and information plates.

What are the hours of operation of Paid Parking?

The hours of operation of Paid Parking would normally be 08.00 – 19.00 Monday to Friday or Monday to Saturday.

Is there a maximum parking period for motorists using Paid Parking?

The parking period permitted is indicated on the appropriate parking ticket machine and information plates.
A vehicle which had been parked in a ticket parking place for the maximum period permitted in that ticket parking place, as indicated on the appropriate Paid Parking ticket parking machine or information plate, shall not be parked again in a ticket parking place on the public road in which that ticket parking place is situated until at least one hour has elapsed since the vehicle was last parked in that ticket parking place.

How many vacant sites are registered with dlrcoco?

There are currently 12 sites registered as vacant with dlrcoco. Please see the the full list here.

How do I pay my rent?

It is possible to pay your rent through the Household Budget deduction scheme for those on Social Welfare payments. Deductions may not exceed 25% of income (contact Housing Rents on 01 2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie for further details)
By using a DLR payment card, which is accepted in all Post Offices and shops which display the PostPoint sign, or online at http://www.mybills.ie/. Please note that when paying online you must enter the 6 digit number on your rent card when asked for a reference.
By using a standing order through your bank. Standing order letters are available from Housing Rents by contacting 01 2054841
By cheque, postal order or bank draft

What do I do if I lose my payment card?

Please contact the Housing Rents section on 01 2054841 or email rents@dlrcoco.ie and we can post out a replacement card
You can also call in person at the housing counter (County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire), Monday – Friday 10am until 4pm and a replacement card can be issued.
We also have an office in Dundrum, Rear Bank of Ireland, Main Street, Dundrum, Dublin 14.
The opening hours are 9.30am - 4.30pm

How long before I know if the Council is interested in leasing my property?

Within one week. The property will be inspected and if deemed suitable for leasing by our inspection the Council will then enter into negotiations with you in respect of rental terms.

Should the tenant engage in Anti Social Behaviour (ABS) or cause a nuisance. What action is open to me?

The Council will have the responsibility for dealing with anti-social behaviour.

Will the Council purchase the property from me?

In some instances the property owner may agree with the Local Authority to include an "option to purchase‟ and/or a “right of first refusal” as a condition of the lease. These clauses give the Local Authority the option to buy the property at intervals during or at the end of the lease or oblige the owner to first offer the property to the Council should he/she decide to sell. Both parties must be in agreement to include this condition and the specific terms must be negotiated.

Can I withdraw from the contract during the lease term if I want to sell the property?

No. Under the long term leasing arrangement the property can be sold by the property owner during the term but only on the condition that the lease agreement is transferred to the new owner and the Local Authority is notified in advance and is in agreement.

What is the Representational Payment for a Councillor

The Representational Payment is currently:- €17,060.00

How do I pay my Rates?

You can pay your rates by the following methods:
By Direct DebitYou can pay your rates in monthly instalments over the course of one year by completing our Direct Debit Mandate Form.
By Bank Giro Credit Transfer/EFT
A Bank Giro is attached to your Rate Demand.
Credit/Debit Card
Telephone 01 2054821 or 01 2054339 (maximum amount €5,000).
In personAt the Council’s Offices in Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum using a Credit or Debit card. Maximum amount is €5,000.
Instalment
If you are experiencing difficulty in paying your bill in full please contact us at 01 2054339 or by e-mail at dlrcoco.ie
Please note that Cash is not accepted at the Council's offices nor should it be sent through the post.

Can I make a lump sum payment?

Yes, you can make a lump sum payment off your mortgage. You should send your request in writing together with your payment to the Housing Revenue Loans Section.

What does Mortgage Protection Insurance cover?

Mortgage Protection Insurance covers the borrower in the case of incapacity up to age 65 and in the case of death up to age 75. It does not cover redundancy or unemployment. If you need further information please contact 01 2054836 .

Who can I contact if I am concerned about arrears?

Please contact Housing Loans Section, on 01 2054836.

How can I make an appointment to talk to someone about my arrears?

You can talk to our dedicated Arrears Support Office by phone 01 2054836 or email housing@dlrcoco.ie or you can contact any member of the Housing Loans Section.

What is MARP?

The Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process (MARP) was introduced to Local Authorities in October 2012 to help borrowers who are In arrears.

Will my case be treated confidentially?

Yes. Every borrower’s case is treated confidentially.

Do I have to sign my property over to the Local Authority when I take in a tenant in receipt of the HAP scheme

No. Your property will remain your property and will not be signed over to the Local Authority when you take in a tenant in receipt of the HAP scheme. The agreement between the landlord, tenant and the property will not differ from how the private rental market currently operates.

What proof of ownership do landlords need to supply?

In order for a HAP payment to be paid into a landlords bank account. HAP need to ensure the landlord receiving the payment is in fact the owner of the property being rented.
There are a number of ways to prove ownership of a property. Listed below are the documents we are allowed to accept as proof of ownership any one of the following.
Title deed or similar legal instrument proving ownership of the property
Current registration letter from the RTB showing the landlords name and the property address. If the house is sub-divided into self-contained flats, each individual flat will need to be registered with the RTB
Insurance policy/schedule for the property. (Must be current and in date. We can not accept renewal notices)
Mortgage Statement dated within the last 12 months indicating landlord as the owner of the property and indicating the property being rented is in fact the same property on the mortgage statement.
Local Property Tax (LPT) statement showing payment, If the house is sub-divided into self-contained flats, LPT must be paid for each individual flat.
Landlords need only provide one of the documents listed above as proof of ownership.
From our experience we have found landlords tend to find the RTB letter or insurance schedule as the easiest to attain

How do I apply for a rent review on my property?

You apply using the RPZ calculator on WWW.RTB.IE You then post or email the resulting calculations to the RAS section. A 90 day notice must be given before the new rent takes effect

How many households are on our social housing waiting list?

The number of households who were on our social housing list at the end of each year were as follows:
2018 - 4524
2017 - 4,749
2016 - 4,991
2015 - 5,687
2014 - 5,207

Do you accept Seasonal Vendors?

Yes. Seasonal applications are for 3 months and applicants can only trade once in 12 month period. Seasonal applications are only for produce or products that have a seasonal growing or/and seasonal selling periods, such as fresh fruits and berries in the summer months and Christmas themed products in the winter.
If you are a seasonal vendor please specify which season you are applying for.

What is the Marlay Park Changing Places Facility?

This facility is an enhanced accessible toilet that has many features and additional equipment that make them even more accessible than the standard accessible toilets. It has 12m² of floor space, and include both a full room coverage ceiling track hoist, a centrally located toilet bowl with space either side for transfers or assistants, and a height-adjustable adult sized changing bench.
The facility has been designed to enhance the health, safety, comfort and dignity of someone who may need extra support and additional equipment during personal care tasks.

Where is the Location of the Marlay Park Changing Places Facility?

The facility is through the archway in the Marlay Park Courtyard

What type of work is covered by the Grant?

The works covered include grab rails, access ramps, level access showers, stair-lifts, and other minor works deemed reasonably necessary to make a house more suitable for a person with mobility problems to live in.

Am I eligible for a Mobility Aid Housing Grant?

The grant is means tested and the level of grant is determined by taking account of the annual gross income of the registered property owner together with all household members over 18 (or 23 if in full time education) in the previous tax year. In order to qualify for a grant under this scheme the gross household income must not exceed €30,000 (some applicants may qualify for certain income disregards).

What is the maximum Grant available?

The maximum grant available is €6,000 or 100% of the approved nett cost of proposed works. The applicant may qualify for a refund of the VAT from the Revenue Commissioners subject to certain conditions once they have paid the contractor in full.

Are there financial supports available to ratepayers in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

The Council are operating two business support schemes for eligible ratepayers.
The Business Support Scheme 2018 - 4% to 10% of Rates Bill for Eligible Ratepayers provides for the payment of a grant to eligible businesses up to10% of their 2017 rates bill subject to a maximum of €800.This grant will benefit businesses located in the County whose rates account was assessed at €10,000 or less for 2017. It will not be necessary for eligible businesses to apply for the support scheme payment.
The 2018 budget also makes provision for the Rates Vacant Property Assistance Scheme 2019 for ratepayers whose rate account was assessed at €10,000 or less for 2018. It provides for a relief equivalent to 8% of the rates bill assessed on eligible properties.
For 2015 and 2016 the refund available is limited to 75% of the rates.
For 2017 and 2018 the refund is a maximum of 50% of the rates assessed for the year.
In addition to this, the Local Enterprise Office promotes a range of financial supports to qualifying businesses based in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County. These include;
The Occupation of Vacant Commercial Premises Scheme which was established to encourage new businesses to occupy commercial premises, that have been vacant for a period exceeding 6 months. The Scheme is applicable to subject premises which have a rates valuation of no more than €60,000.
The Shop Front Improvement Scheme which is an initiative to improve the overall appearance of shop fronts and commercial properties that front onto public streets within Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. Business owners of existing independent shops in the County are eligible to apply for assistance. The Council will cover up to 50% of the shop front cost with a maximum allowable grant of €3,000 per applicant.
Details of these and other financial supports are available at https://www.localenterprise.ie/DLR/Financial-Supports/

How do I gain access to the Marlay Park Changing Places Facility

There is a universal key available that works for Changing Places facilities and other accessible WCs or you can access a key at Brambles (Boland’s) Coffee Shop. Opening hours: 9am - 5.30pm.
The Universal Key supplier is Williams Locksmith, 8 Whitefriars, Aungier Street, Dublin 2

What type of information can I request access to?

You can request access to personal information held by Dún-Laoghaire Rathdown County Council about you regardless of when the information was created.
You can also gain access to other non-personal records created after 21st October 1998.
Some records are not immediately available under the FOI Act. Access may be restricted by certain exemptions or involve specific procedures and time limits.

Do I need to pay a fee when making a request under the FOI Act?

Whilst there is no fee for the initial FOI request, the Council may apply search, retrieval and copying fees, subject to thresholds set out in the Act. Please see the attached document entitled 'Freedom of Information Fees' for more info.
Other Charges
In line with Section 27 of the Act, charges may be applied for the time spent finding records and for any photocopying costs incurred in providing the material requested. Fees will not be charged in respect of personal records, except where a large number of records are involved. Fees for search, retrieval and copying of records are set in accordance with Statutory Instruments No 484 of 2014 as follows:
€ 20 per hour of search retrieval€ 0.04 per sheet for a photocopy€ 10 for a CD Rom
Fees and charges paid by money order or cheque should be made payable to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
Reductions and Waivers
A fee in respect of search, retrieval and copying of records will be waived where the cost does not exceed €100.

Does my request have to be in writing?

Requests must be made in writing and delivered by hand, post, email or fax. All requests should be addressed to:
Leonora EarlsFreedom of Information OfficerCorporate, Communications and Governance DepartmentDún Laoghaire-Rathdown County CouncilMarine RoadDún LaoghaireCo. Dublin
DDI: 01 2047014Fax: 01 2806969
Email: foi@dlrcoco.ie
You must state that you are requesting the information under the Freedom of Information Acts.
Requests should contain sufficient information to enable us identify the records in question. They should also specify the format in which access to records is sought, for example photocopy of records, viewing of file, email etc.
If you choose to use our FOI Application Form please find it attached under the Related Documents heading above

What areas can HAP tenants be HAP'd into from Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council?

Should you find a private rental property in the jurisdiction of any other Local Authority in Ireland, you can receive a HAP payment for that property through Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. This will only apply should your total annual net income not exceed the income limit set out in that jurisdiction.
If you are unsure what the income limits in any Local Authority are, you can contact that Local Authority directly for clarification.